asked the Taoiseach whether in view of the extension of unemployment, the continuous exodus of our citizens in search of work elsewhere, and the rapid deterioration of the economic condition of the country, he is now prepared to set up an economic council to formulate plans for the reintegration of our economy and to advise the Government in regard to their implementation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Economic Council.
On the 11th March, 1941, the Deputy moved a motion in terms somewhat similar to those of his question requesting the Government to set up an economic council. That motion was opposed by the Government for reasons stated by Ministers who took part in the debate, and was defeated on a vote of the House. The reasons so stated still hold good and the attitude of the Government to the proposal remains unchanged.
In view of the fact that there has been a very serious and very rapid deterioration in the economic position since that period, and that the assurances then given that Ministers were dealing with the economic problems which at that time called for consideration, and that their efforts have not, in fact, eased the economic difficulties referred to, will the Taoiseach now reconsider the Government's attitude towards the proposal that was then submitted and endeavour to create some type of organisation which will make an effort to stem the still more serious deterioration which threatens in the immediate future?
So far as any deterioration that can be stemmed by an organisation is concerned, we have that organisation in our present Departments.
What then is causing thousands of young, healthy, able-bodied Irishmen to go to Britain to search for work which, apparently, is not available for them here?
The conditions which caused these things will not be altered by setting up an economic council.
What proposals are in mind for stemming the exodus of our population to another country?
The whole purpose of Government policy is to try as far as possible to do that, but the Government cannot do impossible things.