asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has seen a Press report of the special meeting of the Clonmel Chamber of Commerce in connection with the closing down of the factory there owned by Chappie (Ireland) Limited; and, if so, whether he will take immediate steps to remedy the grave dissatisfaction in Clonmel with the effect on employment there of his attitude towards the canned meat factory.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Chappie (Ireland) Limited, Clonmel.
I have seen the Press reports referred to by the Deputy, and I have every reason to believe that the people of Clonmel are not deceived by the misleading statements made in it.
As I pointed out to the deputation I received from Clonmel last week, I gave this company the opportunity last year to provide ample employment for their workers by offering them a share in contracts for the supply of canned beef. The company refused this offer —for no good reason—and instead pursued very questionable tactics in relation to the export of canned horse for human consumption in lieu of the dog food for the production of which the company was ostensibly established. It is, therefore, perfectly plain where the responsibility lies.