asked the Taoiseach if he will state the imports of anthracite coal in tons and the cost thereof for the year ending 31st December, 1952, and for the three months ending 31st March, 1953.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports of Anthracite Coal.
The imports of anthracite coal in the year 1952 were 65,126 tons, valued at £417,498, and in the period January-February, 1953, the imports were 5,925 tons, valued at £43,407. The figures for March, 1953, are not yet available.
In view of the unemployment which exists in the coal industry at the present time in the country, would the Parliamentary Secretary stop the import of anthracite coal and thus create employment and prevent emigration?
The Deputy should address that question elsewhere.