asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he can state the number of firms engaged in the manufacture and bottling of mineral water in the Saorstát, and the number of persons at present employed in the industry.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - THE MINERAL WATER INDUSTRY
The manufacture and bottling of mineral waters is an industry which is of a very scattered nature, and a considerable number of small firms exist throughout the country and in the small towns. The industry is also of a seasonal nature, with the result that employment fluctuates considerably. For these reasons I am unable to give a precise reply to the Deputy's question. It is estimated, however, that there are some 120 firms engaged in the industry, many of these being on a very small scale, and that the numbers employed are approximately 1,000. This latter figure increases considerably during the busy season.
That is the minimum figure?
Yes. During the off season it would be about 1,000, increasing by about 50 per cent. in the busy season.