asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that considerable unemployment exists in the mining districts of Castlecomer, occasioned by the small demand for Irish coal, and whether he will take steps to compel all subsidised and protected industries to use Irish coal in future, and thereby give much-needed employment.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - UNEMPLOYMENT IN MINING DISTRICTS.
The number of persons registered for employment at the Castlecomer branch employment office during the last six weeks is an average of 49. I do not consider it would be practicable to make the use of Irish coal compulsory in the industries mentioned in the question, without regard to the quantities required, their quality and price. I would not, in any event, have power to do so without legislation.