asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that the duty imposed on empty glass bottles is causing serious difficulties in the Irish ink trade, and, also, if he is aware that Irish ink manufacturers complain that they were unable to obtain Irish-made bottles for six months after the imposition of the duty on imported bottles, and are not yet able to obtain Irish-made bottles in sufficient numbers or at practicable prices.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DUTY ON EMPTY GLASS BOTTLES —POSITION OF IRISH INK TRADE.
TOMAS MAC EOIN
I am not aware that the duty on glass bottles is causing any serious difficulty to the Irish ink trade. There was inevitably some delay in supply after the tariff was imposed, but I understand that ink bottles of Irish manufacture are available in sufficient quantities to meet the demand of the ink trade, and at reasonable prices.
Would the Minister say if he has received any communication on this matter regarding the difficulty of getting supplies, from the Irish ink manufacturers?
I am aware that one particular firm has sent a certain communication raising a point, but I am not satisfied that its representations are correct in every particular.
Arising out of the Minister's answer, is he aware that the cost of Irish-made bottles is from 33 1-3 to 50 per cent. above that of English-made bottles, and does he not consider that that imposes a very severe handicap on the industry?
I am not aware that they are so much dearer, if they are dearer at all.
Will the Minister look at two invoices?
Yes.