asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that 50 workers employed at a leather factory in Dungarvan are under one week's notice and that the balance of the workers are warned that they will be required to go on short time; and, if so, if he will state whether it is correct that the home trade will be unable to take any supplies until August of finished light leather and if he will, in the circumstances, grant a licence for the export of this type of leather and thus prevent the 50 men from losing their employment and the balance of over 100 men from being put on short time.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dungarvan Leather Factory.
I was informed by the Deputy that the position was as stated in the first part of the question but as an export licence sought by the company had, prior to the receipt of the Deputy's communication, already issued, I assume that the position to which he refers no longer obtains. I have decided that export licences will continue to be granted for any leather produced by the company which is surplus to, or unsuited for, the requirements of the home footwear manufacturers, and the company has been so informed.