asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether before Córas Iompair Éireann engaged a non-Irish concern to run the hotels and catering establishments under its control, his Department was consulted about the proposal from the point of view of the employment of non-Irish firms and staff in trade here; and, if so, whether he approved of the proposal; furthermore, whether he will ensure as far as he is able that in future Irish employers and workers in this trade will get preference in cases such as this.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Córas Iompair Éireann Hotels.
The appointment of a firm to manage their hotels for a limited period is not a matter in which Córas Iompair Éireann are under a statutory obligation to obtain the prior approval of the Minister for Industry and Commerce. I understand that before entering into the arrangement with Gordon Hotels Limited the then chairman of Córas Iompair Éireann informed my predecessor of his intentions.
While I fully agree with the Deputy's view that preference should be given to Irishmen, there is no action which I could usefully take in the matter at this stage.
Can no steps be taken to ensure that Irishmen should at least get an equal chance with nonnationals?
There are no steps which I can take at the moment. I understand, however, that this agreement is due to expire at the end of the year.