asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware that quantities of tyres on cars that have been put off the road since the emergency are daily deteriorating and likely to become useless; and whether, in view of the scarcity of tyres and rubber, he will take immediate steps to have these tyres acquired to relieve the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Motor Tyres.
According to the information at my disposal laid up motor tyres, if stored by the owners under proper conditions, will remain serviceable for an indefinite period.
The compulsory acquisition of tyres on laid up vehicles is a step which would give rise to considerable difficulty, and I consider that such a scheme should be brought into operation only in circumstances of compelling necessity and would not at present be justified.
As, no doubt, the Deputy is aware, arrangements are at present in operation whereby the Irish Dunlop Company will supply remoulded tyres required for immediate use on vehicles engaged in essential services provided the owners of such vehicles are in a position to forward to the company sound casings suitable for remoulding. It is open to persons not in possession of suitable casings to obtain them from owners of laid up vehicles.