asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that many acres of osier twigs are going to waste in this country; that these twigs were formerly exported and also used for basket-making, etc.; that China cane is now being used as a substitute for them here; and if he will have inquiries made with a view to having the homegrown material used exclusively wherever possible and thus help to re-establish an old industry which once gave considerable employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Osier Twig Industry.
I am aware that the demand abroad for osier twigs of the type grown in the Saorstát the bulk of the output of which was exported has declined in recent years. The position of the industry in relation to the home demand for material of this nature is under consideration in my Department in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture.