§ 87. Sir MAURICE DOCKRELLasked the Minister of Labour how many ex-service men in Irland are at present in receipt of the out-of-work donation; what is their percentage of unemployment as contrasted with that of ex-service men in Great Britain; is the fullest information given by leaflet to out-of-work donation recipients and by notice boards at each employment agency as to where employment can be applied for by ex-service men in search of work, and in 1072 general is every effort being used to help the men to find employment; has money been placed at anyone's disposal in Ireland for helping ex-service men; and, if so, what is the amount and by whom is it being disbursed?
§ The MINISTER OF LABOUR (Dr. Macnamara)The number of ex-service men in Ireland claiming out-of-work donation at 4th June was 19,127, compared with 155,915 in England, 2,980 in Wales, and 14,097 in Scotland. As regards the second part of the question, I am sorry to say that I have not the data which would enable me to strike the several percentages which my hon. Friend desires to compare. The fullest possible information is given by leaflet, poster, etc., as to how and where ex-service men who are unemployed should apply for employment or out-of-work donation, and every effort is being made to find employment for these men. Apart from the out-of-work donation, in cases which come within the regulations, ex-service men are eligible for grants from the Civil Liabilities Department.
§ Sir M. DOCKRELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is profound discontent among ex-Service men in Ireland at the failure of the Government to find employment for them. Is he further aware that the treatment centres are capable of being made self-supporting and of providing both training and employment for ex-service men?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI fully recognise that these men everywhere, and particularly in Ireland, need our sympathy, and I am doing all I possibly can in the matter.
§ Sir M. DOCKRELLThe Prime Minister has referred to the fact that negotiations were going on with the trade unions concerning the employment of ex-service men? Are similar negotiations taking place with the trade unions in Ireland?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe unions are the same whether they be in Ireland or in other parts of the United Kingdom. If the hon. Member thinks there is any differentiation, I shall be very glad if he will point it out. Obviously, the negotiations will apply to both countries.