asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a notice has been posted up in Messrs. Hills' Mill, Lucan, stating that a number of employees will be redundant as a result of worsening conditions in the textile trade; and, if so, whether he will state what steps he intends to take to keep these people in employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lucan Mills—Position of Employees.
I understand that a warning notice to the effect that it may shortly be necessary to terminate the employment of some workers has been posted in Messrs. Hills' Mill, Lucan. No workers have yet been disemployed, and I understand that the maximum number likely to be affected would not exceed six.
In so far as employment in the industry may have been affected by imports of woollen and worsted piece goods, steps have already been taken to give protection by an import quota covering the main types of cloths made by the Irish woollen and worsted manufacturers. The quantity of such cloths to be imported during the current quota period, commencing on the 1st March, has been fixed in agreement with the Irish manufacturers.
Is the Minister not aware that there is general disappointment in the textile trade at the moment as a result of his handling of the position, and not alone on that side of the trade, but also in the drapery trade?
This question deals with Messrs. Hills' Mill, Lucan.
The Minister says that only six men will be unemployed. I do not doubt the Minister's word, but my information is that there will be treble that number and that these are married men entitled to a living in the country. Judging by the statements of Clann na Poblachta in County Dublin, they were to give employment to everybody.
Do not let them worry, the Minister for Local Government will make a promise.
I am endeavouring as rapidly as I can to meet the situation which was brought about by the opening of the flood-gates in 1947.