asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that foreign-made carpets have been specified and have been or are to be imported for the buildings at Shannon Airport, and that there are at least five carpet manufacturers in this country, who use only Irish manufactured woollen, cotton and jute yarns in their carpets and who give considerable employment directly and indirectly, and, if so, if he will state why the purchases are not to be made from an Irish manufacturer.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Airport Carpets.
It is not correct to say that foreign-made carpets have been specified for Shannon Airport. Tenders for new carpets for Shannon Airport have not yet been sought. All materials and fittings required for the airport are obtained as far as possible from home manufacturers and inquiries will be made to see if home manufacturers are in a position to meet requirements in this case.
The Minister has not specifically replied to the point, which says that foreign-made carpets have been specified—specified by the architect. Has he any information on that?
That statement is not correct.
That is all right.