The Building Slump: Workers’ Plight

At the Dublin housing inquiry, Mr. Owen Hynes, secretary of the Dublin Building Operatives’ Public Utility Society, highlighted the severe unemployment crisis in the building trade. He noted that he had never witnessed such extensive unemployment, with 260 bricklayers signing at the Dublin Labour Exchange this week, and many more returning to their rural homes. Skilled craftsmen had exhausted their insurance and trade union benefits and were now seeking unemployment assistance. Unskilled labourers were also facing dire conditions.

Advocating for Brick Houses

Mr. Hynes urged the resumption of building brick houses and the provision of loans for house purchases under the Small Dwellings Acquisition Act. He detailed the Society’s efforts, established in 1932, following the Corporation’s decision to eliminate brick houses from their building schemes. This decision had made it difficult for bricklayers to find employment, prompting the formation of the Society.

Early Building Schemes

The Society’s first project involved eight houses, financed by £40 advances from each of the prospective occupants, small loans from sympathizers, and local government subsidies. Builders’ providers extended liberal credit for materials. An additional 82 houses were subsequently built, each sold for £500, comprising a £40 deposit, £60 subsidy, and a £400 Corporation loan under the Small Dwellings Act. These houses featured three bedrooms, a parlour, kitchen, scullery, and bathroom, with total payments amounting to about 13 shillings per week, factoring in partial rate remission.

Sundrive Road Project

Their second scheme on Sundrive Road required a minimum selling price of £600 per house, as stipulated by the Corporation. However, upon completion, the Corporation initially limited their loan offer to £375 per house, later reducing it to £350. An insurance company’s expert, however, recommended a loan of £497 for one of these houses.

Impact on Employment and Housing

Mr. Hynes contended that despite the financial challenges posed by slum clearance, the Corporation’s loan system under the Small Dwellings Act could alleviate the housing crisis in the long run. He emphasized the “terrible” unemployment within the building trade, urging for measures to address the plight of both skilled and unskilled workers.

Further Testimonies

Mr. Jim Larkin requested a date to present additional evidence, with the inquiry adjourned until the following Wednesday at 11 a.m.