asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware that poles for use by his Department are now imported in a finished state ready for creosoting; that previously these poles were imported in a rough condition with the bark adhering, and that their dressing gave considerable employment in the Cork area; and, if so, whether he will ensure that the dressing of these poles will be carried out in this country in future and thus prevent further unemployment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports of Telegraph Poles.
Poles used in the Department of Posts and Telegraphs are generally imported in a partially dressed condition, and the dressing is completed at Dublin or Cork. During the past year, however, it was not possible to secure sufficient partially dressed poles to meet the requirements of the telephone development programme, and two lots of poles, one in a completely dressed condition and the other already creosoted, were purchased.