asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether any reserve stocks of copper, lead and other non-ferrous metals are at present held in this country and, if so, to what extent.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reserve Metal Stocks.
Major de Valera
In September last the Industrial Development Authority, at my request, considered the raw materials position in essential industries, including industries using non-ferrous metals. Manufacturers were advised of the growing difficulties likely to be encountered in securing raw materials and were urged, in their own and in the national interest, to lay in stocks representing at least six months' supplies. It soon became evident, however, that the position in Great Britain, our normal source of supply in regard to these metals, was developing to a point where purchases for industrial stockpiling were virtually impossible. Accordingly Irish users were unable to build up any appreciable reserves of non-ferrous metals.
Major de Valera
The Minister is aware, of course, that substantial exports of non-ferrous metals are continuing up to the moment. Is this problem in any way being correlated with the export of these metals? Last week, and at different periods, we have had, in reply to questions, tables furnished showing sizable exports of these metals. I ask the Minister if there is any correlation?
That particular matter is being looked into actively. Any exports that have been made up to this were made in accordance with previous commitments with regard to the purchase of ships from outside this country—the break-up and the export of certain products from the break-up. We would not have got the ships except under those conditions. The break-up gave certain employment here. We got a certain amount from the break-up and we exported so much. The whole question is being reviewed. Any previous commitments are not continuing commitments.
Major de Valera
Am I to understand that the only exports of non-ferrous metals from this country arise from the breaking-up of ships?
The Deputy is not to interpret anything of the kind from the Minister's answer. I gave an answer in part.
Major de Valera
In part. Now, as regards the other part, the export of metal is continuing—and it is continuing, apparently, while consideration is continuing at the same time.
There are certain other exports with regard to experimental exploration outside this country, with a view to ensuring the future supply of metals in this country.
The Minister is probably aware—the Deputy may have been—that some of the exports of non-ferrous metals from this country are in exchange for larger or similar quantities of metals to be brought in.