asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that three flour mills in East Cork, one in Midleton, one in Clondulane, Fermoy, and one in Mallow, owned by Messrs. Hallinan, have recently been acquired by Messrs. Ranks, Liverpool; that there is a grave danger of these mills being closed down, with resulting distress and unemployment, and if he will have immediate inquiries made and steps taken to prevent the closing down of these mills and to safeguard the industry generally.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - East Cork Mills.
I understand that the mill at Clondulane has been closed for some time, but have no information tending to show that the other mills mentioned in the question are in danger of immediate closing. The position of the flour milling industry generally in the Saorstát is a matter which will have early investigation. Pending that investigation I anticipate that no mills will be closed down.
Is the Minister aware that the English Millers' Mutual Association absolutely control the milling industry in the Saorstát? Is he aware they have power of ordering any mill as to the number of sacks of flour it should produce, and that they issue instructions as to whether a mill should close down or remain working? Is he going to take any steps in connection with that matter? Those mills are being operated under a quota system. The quota for Buttevant Mills has been sold to Messrs. Johnston, Mooney and O'Brien, of Dublin. In view of the danger to the whole milling industry and the possibility of the milling business being transferred from East Cork, will the Minister take immediate steps to investigate the matter?
I do not think the Deputy's information is quite accurate. The position of the flour-milling industry is under investigation.
Will the Minister indicate when this investigation will be completed and the result reported to the House?
No.
Mr. Hogan
Could the Minister give us any indication as to when the investigation will be completed?
I hope to be able to make a statement concerning the position at an early date.
Mr. Hogan
A sanctified phrase?
Well worthy of the Minister's predecessor.
Mr. Hogan
I suppose we may expect an investigation after Easter?