asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the great loss being incurred by Irish shipyards through their inability to get steel at similar prices to the prices paid by British shipbuilding concerns; and, if so, if he will negotiate a trade agreement with the British Government on lines similar to the former coal cattle pact, so that steel can be taken in part payment for our exported cattle, canned meat, etc.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Shipyards—Price of Steel.
Mr. A. Byrne
I would refer the Deputy to the replies which I gave to similar questions on the 4th December and 10th December, 1952.
Mr. A. Byrne
Since the Minister gave those replies, shipbuilding work to the extent of £200,000, together with a further £300,000—in all, £500,000— has left Ireland for shipbuilding yards across the Channel. Will he now take some steps to see that a steel supply is guaranteed to our industry so that it will be enabled to compete with English concerns?
I have made frequent representations to the British Government on the matter, but I do not control the policy of the British Government.
Mr. A. Byrne
Is he aware of the unemployment existing in the shipbuilding industry in Dublin and Cork?
I am as well aware of it as the Deputy, and if the Deputy would give the matter any thought, he would realise——
Mr. A. Byrne
Do not talk about unemployment and then not move in regard to it.