asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a statement appeared in the Cork Press on 22nd April, 1949, that Irish ships were being sent across Channel for repairs while Irish docks are lying idle; and, if so, whether he will indicate if this statement is correct and, if necessary, take steps to ensure that where possible all such work will in future be carried out in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Repair of Irish Ships.
I have not seen the statement referred to. I have already taken up with the principal Irish shipping companies the question of having repairs to their ships carried out in Irish dockyards. These companies, with few exceptions, state that it has been their practice to give repair work to Irish dockyards where it is feasible and that they will continue to do so. I have no statutory powers to ensure that repairs to Irish ships are carried cut in this country.
Will the Minister state if it is a fact, that certain ships were sent across the Channel for repairs while there were facilities for repairing them in the Cork dock area?
I am not so aware; it may be so.