asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his Department has received an application from a Dublin firm for permission to export a quantity of Irish gin and Irish whiskey to Germany, and if he is aware that the firm importing the spirit into Germany is not prepared to import gin unless a quantity of whiskey is also available; and, if so, if he will grant these facilities to the firm concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Exports to Germany.
As I have already informed the Deputy in reply to his recent written representations in this case, the position in regard to supplies of whiskey which may be made available for export is under review. Pending the result of this review, I am unable to say if it will be possible to grant the facilities sought by the firm in question.
If, however, evidence can be produced that the firm has an order from a German importer to purchase Irish gin and whiskey I will give an application for an export licence sympathetic consideration, having regard to the requirements of the home market.
Will the Minister say how long has the application been with him to which he is going to give consideration?
The reply that I have received suggests that there is evidence of a firm order from a German importer.
The Minister also said that there was an application in the Department receiving consideration.
No. What I said was that the whole position in regard to the leasing of supplies of whiskey for export was under review.
Are you aware that last year applications were put in for such a purpose, and that they were held up for months and months?
I am sure they were.
It will not happen this time.