Michael Moynihan
Ceist:17 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence when he proposes to bring the Defence Forces establishments within the scope of the relevant health and safety at work legislation.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Forces.
Having regard to the nature of the roles undertaken by the Defence Forces, my Department are in consultation with the National Authority on Occupational Safety and Health in regard to the extent to which the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989, should apply to the Forces. Extensive safety procedures appropriate to military requirements are, of course, in operation throughout the Defence Forces and are reviewed regularly in consultation with relevant personnel.
The Minister referred to generalities. I would like to refer him to the conditions stated in the report and at the apprentice school in particular. Would he not agree that it is a scandal that there are apprentices who have to learn their trade in conditions which do not meet basic health and safety standards? Will he comment further on the need and desirability to have these standards brought up to at least FAS training establishment requirements?
I agree with the Deputy on the need for this. A joint civil and military working group have been established by me to recommend what approach should be adopted and to consider what steps are necessary to implement existing legislation in regard to the Defence Forces. I am giving this priority. The matter is being dealt with.
With all due respect, the Minister says he agrees with the Deputies, he takes on board what we are saying, but that has to be put into practice.
Hear, hear.
There is no commitment here, good, bad or indifferent, on any of the questions we put to the Minister that he is going to make provisions for this in the Estimates. That is the kernel of this discussion. We have apprentices working under conditions which would bring about a strike in the private sector. It is an utter scandal and it is up to the Minister to do something about it.
The Minister has done more than anybody else——
The Deputy is being a little irresponsible.
Not in the least.
Deputy Sherlock's question.
The safety of workers should never be taken lightly even if they are in uniform.
I agree fully and that is why we are doing something about it. We have set up a working group to look at this.
Does the Minister suggest anyone here is being irresponsible in raising it?
Question No. 18.
(Interruptions.)
On a point of order, I want to take issue with the Minister.
Does the Deputy want me to repeat the reply?
No. Question No. 18 has been called.