asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention had been drawn to a statement made at the Irish Trade Union Congress on the 23rd July, 1953, that C.I.E. were importing 1,000 goods wagons, 100 carriage and under-frames, 200 carriage bolsters, 200 carriage bogeys and 12 diesel electric locomotives; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - C.I.E. Imports.
It is not correct that C.I.E. have arranged for the importation of goods wagons. Certain components for 1,000 wagons were, I understand, ordered in 1951 and are now being imported as owing to supply difficulties at the time it was not possible to arrange for production at their own works, and with the aim of preventing the interruption of their wagon construction programme.
As I informed the Deputy in reply to a similar question last week, C.I.E. have also arranged to import a number of steel castings for passenger-coach under frames, which could not be produced in this country.
Twelve diesel electric locomotives are being imported as part of an order placed in 1948.