asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that applicants for work on the housing scheme at Windy Arbour, Dundrum, can obtain employment only by producing a recommendation from a member of a political organisation; and, if so, whether he will take steps to secure the dismissal of the official responsible for this method of selection.

I am not aware that the situation mentioned in the Deputy's question exists. This scheme is being carried out by contract and the recruitment of labour for the scheme is a matter for the contractor subject only to compliance with the conditions of contract.

Is it not a fact that this housing scheme is being done for the county council? If this state of affairs exists, will the Minister inquire fully—much more fully than he has done—into the matter, because it is suggested that this sort of thing is happening every other day?

The fact is that the job is being carried out by the contractor. He employs his own foreman. The suggestion is remote. It is a matter for the contractor to recruit the labour, subject to certain conditions.

What about recruiting the workers for these works through the employment exchange?