§ 25. Mr. DONALDasked the Minister of Labour the number of persons employed in the Ministry of Labour in Ireland during 1914 and 1920, also the number of permanent and temporary officials employed in the Labour Exchanges in Ireland during 1914 and 1920; and how many in each case are ex-service men?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe total number of persons employed by the Ministry of Labour in Ireland on 25th June, 1920, was 662 men and 263 women, making a total of 925 persons (including branch managers and cleaners, who are part-time staff). Of this total, 758 were full-time staff, comprising 534 men (including 354 ex-service men) and 224 women. Of the full-time staff on that date, 111 men and 28 women were permanent and 238 men and 64 women were temporary, making a total of 349 men (including 215 ex-service men) and 92 women. As regards the figures for 1914, my hon. Friend is doubtless aware that the Ministry of Labour, as such, did not exist at that time. There were, however, 181 permanent and 19 temporary officers employed in Ireland on 27th June, 1914, in the (then) Labour Exchange service, which was at that time under the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. DONALDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the proportion of women employed in Ireland is far too high, and that their places could be taken by ex-service men who are unemployed in Ireland to a very large extent?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy hon Friend had better look at the detailed figures 1429 which I have given as regards the proportion of ex-service men. If he will do that and communicate with me I will go into the matter.