asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the curved steel and ironwork used in connection with reconstruction of buildings, and also in the erection of new buildings in the Saorstát, is being imported in a finished state; and whether, in view of the fact that the curving of steel can be carried out in the Saorstát and give much-needed employment, he will state what action, if any, he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Importation of Steel and Ironwork.
My Department has for some time been in consultation with the constructional steel engineering firms as to administrative action for the benefit of the industry. Any other form of action is a matter rather for the industry itself than for me.
Is the Minister aware that the raw material is £1 2s. 6d. cheaper to the British contractors than the Irish contractors can secure it?
Not to all of them.
To those, I understand, who are operating in this country.
I understand that that does not apply universally. I have heard allegations made with regard to certain ring arrangements which are said to be in operation, but I am not aware of them.