asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a number of employees have received notice terminating their employment from Messrs. Clayton and Company's Woollen Mills, Navan; and, if so, whether he can take any action to enable the firm to give their full staff continuous employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Navan Woollen Mills.
I have been informed that notice terminating their employment has been given to a number of employees in the wool carding and spinning sections of Messrs. Clayton and Company's Woollen Mills. I understand that the company has found it necessary to install a new dyeing plant and during the installation of this plant would not be able to handle the output of the wool carding and spinning sections.
As the Deputy is aware, the manufacture of woollen and worsted fabrics is protected by means of an import quota. The import quota for the six monthly period from the 1st March, 1949 is 1,500,000 square yards as compared with 2,000,000 square yards for the corresponding period in 1948. Additional protection has been indirectly afforded by the Government's recent decision to double the protective duties on men's and boys' readymade clothing.