asked the Minister for Labour the number of applications for redundancy payments under consideration; and the figure for the same time last year.

My Department were notified by employers of 19,004 qualified redundancies during 1975. In 1976 to date notifications have been received in respect of 5,820 redundancies.

What was the first figure?

Nineteen thousand and four in 1975, in 1976 to date notifications in respect of 5,820.

Are Goulding's men included in that?

I do not think they are.

12.

asked the Minister for Labour if he is aware of redundancies affecting CIE road freight staff; and if he will investigate the matter and make a statement on it.

I am aware of the statement by the chairman of CIE on 20th May, 1976 concerning the future of the company and its efforts to reduce staffing levels. Negotiations have been taking place over the past year on a productivity scheme and I understand that the trade unions are at present considering proposals put forward by CIE.

Have the number of redundancies been submitted to the Minister yet?

Not yet.

Is the Minister aware that such figures are available in each depot of the country?

Yes, but as the Deputy knows there is a time lag between notification at official level and suggested redundancies at each depot.

Would the Minister make the necessary representations to his colleague in Government, the Minister for Transport and Power, regarding the new transport Bill which will further affect the redundancy situation in the company?

The National Manpower Service will co-operate with CIE in trying to provide alternative jobs for any workers who are made redundant.

Will the Minister indicate, in cities like Cork or Dublin, where there might be opportunities for National Manpower to create or provide alternative employment?

That would be a matter for National Manpower, but their record is very good in that regard.

They would want to be superhuman.