HC Deb 26 May 1927 vol 206 cc2173-4
50. Mr. KELLY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will see that the superannuated employés of the Irish lights service whose transfer has not yet taken effect receive the same benefit as the transferred civil servants by the recent decision of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council?

Sir B. CHADWICK

The question of the superannuation terms to be granted to employés in the Irish lights service, when that service is transferred to the Free State Government, will be considered in due course.

Mr. KELLY

In view of the fact that the Treaty has not been implemented up to now, and many of these men are approaching superannuation age, what steps are being taken to satisfy them that they will receive what they are entitled to when they reach that age?

Sir B. CHADWICK

The transfer of the administration of the Irish lights is the subject of negotiation between the British and Free State Governments, and I can only repeat that the matter will have consideration.

Mr. KELLY

When was the last negotiation between this Government and the Irish Free State with regard to this question?

Sir B. CHADWICK

I could not say without notice.

Mr. KELLY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will give some information as to the approximate date when the negotiations and transfer of the Irish lighthouse service is likely to be concluded by His Majesty's Government and that of the Free State?

Sir B. CHADWICK

I am afraid that I cannot give any indication as to the approximate date when the negotiations to which the hon. Members refers are likely to be concluded.

Mr. KELLY

Which body has to be approached this time with regard to the conditions of these men? Have we to approach the Board of Trade, Trinity House, or the Irish Free State?

Sir B. CHADWICK

The Irish Lights Commissioners.

Mr. KELLY

In view of the fact that the Irish Lights Commissioners have this matter in hand, how does the hon. Member justify the reply he is now making?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter which should come within the realm of Debate.