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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 24 Feb 1949

Vol. 114 No. 4

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Repairs on Irish Ships.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that there is heavy unemployment amongst shipyard workers in Dublin consequent upon ships being diverted for repairs to ports outside of this country, and whether he will consider taking steps to ensure that repairs on Irish registered ships and ships mainly engaged in trading to Irish ports, will be carried out in Irish ship repair yards.

I have received representations regarding unemployment among shipyard workers in Dublin. While I fully agree with the view that repairs to Irish ships should be carried out in Irish shipyards to the greatest possible extent, I have no statutory powers in the matter. I have no reason to doubt that ship owners are aware of the facilities available in the local shipyards and I feel that they are anxious to give such work locally.

Would the Minister give consideration to the fact that among the workers affected there is a feeling that the unemployment results from some policy being followed by the dockyard company—I do not want to say anything further than that—and that it is a matter which might merit his consideration, even of an unofficial character?

In view of the importance to the merchant shipping service and to the ports of Dublin and Cork that shipyard facilities should be maintained and developed, will the Minister consider taking statutory powers to assist in the development of ship repairing and, possibly, shipbuilding in these ports?

I am anxious to help in that matter to the fullest extent I possibly can, but there is nobody more conversant with the difficulties than the Deputy who has asked the question. In so far as it is within my power as Minister to help in that direction, I certainly am prepared to do it. I think the point which Deputy Larkin raised is somewhat different from what is set out in his question. However, if there is an aspect and he gives me particulars about it, I shall look into the matter.

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