1 Local Government Board, Dublin. 11th March, 1916. References:— Belfast Munition Workers.
Dear Captain Kelly, I have been directed to report on some serious
complaints have reached my Board as to the practical
exclusion of women, who are suffering distress in
Belfast owing to the war, from the various factories which
are carrying out Munition work. As you are probably aware the majority of the
textile factories are working on 'short time' with the
result that the earnings of the majority of the workers
have been seriously decreased concurrently with a sharp
increase in the cost of living and there has been a
certain amount of actual disemployment. The statement
is made that some of the Munition factories actually
advertised for women wage earners and that instead of
employing the women who applied ladies, amateurs, have
filled the post. I would be glad if you would let me know privately
whether these statements are in any way justified and
if at the same time you will give me any idea as to the
early demand for women wage earners in Munition work in
Belfast and districts I would be very much obliged. Yours very truly, Local Govt. Inspector.
Captain Kelly, Ministry of Munitions, 32, Nassau Street, Dublin.