asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether the revocation effected by Emergency Powers (No. 131) Order, 1941, of the duties hitherto levied on elastic, elastic cord, laces, etc., is likely to diminish the volume of employment provided in Ennis by the firm of Messrs. L. Jordan, Ltd.; and, if so, whether he will state what provision (if any) has been made to provide alternative employment for workers who will be displaced as a result of the making of Emergency Powers (No. 131) Order.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment in Ennis.
In present circumstances, it is unlikely that the suspension by Emergency Powers (No. 131) Order, 1941, of the customs duties on imported elastics, elastic cord, laces and braided material will seriously affect the demand for the company's products. It is, therefore, improbable that the volume of employment provided in Ennis by the firm will diminish. In the circumstances the second part of the Deputy's question does not arise.
What is the purpose of continuing the high tariff in this case if its removal will not affect employment?
That is a separate question.
For a similar reason why a number of other tariffs have also been suspended.
The idea of suspension occurred to the Minister only after two directors were brought before the courts, and not before then.
That is a conclusion for which the Deputy has no basis.
Everyone in the country has come to the same conclusion, except the Minister.
There is another explanation that would occur to a person with average intelligence.