asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the importation and use in the construction of public buildings of Portland stone is causing unemployment among quarry workers; and, if so, whether he will take such steps as are necessary to ensure that Irish granite will, where possible, be used.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports of Portland Stone.
I am aware that in some cases Portland stone is being used in the construction of public buildings as an alternative to Irish granite. This Portland stone is, however, imported unworked and employment is given on the working of the stone. I am informed that the cost of granite is nearly 75 per cent. higher than that of Portland, and that delivery dates would be more than 12 months as compared with three months in the case of Portland.
In these circumstances it would be difficult, in the case of buildings being erected by or under the authority of the State, to justify insistence on the use of Irish granite.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that Portland stone is being used for the facing of the new Córas Iompair Éireann building in Store Street? Is he further aware that the delay which he alleges would take place in deliveries is due to the fact that Irish workers have been compelled to leave Ballynocken quarries due to unemployment?
I am aware that Portland stone is being used on the Córas Iompair Éireann building in Store Street, but the difference in cost between Irish granite and Portland stone is substantial. I am not aware that any delays in completing the building were due to workers having left Ballynocken.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary further aware that Irish granite is far superior to imported Portland stone?