asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that Government contracts for the repair and overhaul of ships, which could be undertaken in shipyards in this country, are being placed abroad, and, if so, whether in the interests of Irish industry and the Irish workers he will take such steps as are necessary to have this practice discontinued.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Repair of Ships.
I am not aware that Government contracts are being placed abroad for the repair and overhaul of ships where the work could have been undertaken in Irish yards.
I can assure the Deputy that it is my constant concern to ensure that, as far as practicable, work of this nature shall be carried out in Irish shipyards. It will be appreciated, however, that instances may occur from time to time in which, for technical and other reasons, the placing of orders abroad for this type of work is unavoidable.
Is the Minister aware that quite recently two ships purchased by the Department of Defence had contracts advertised for outside this country when there was a Cork firm willing to tender for them on an equal basis?
I understand that the Department of Defence as far back as 1951 entered into some discussions for the purchase of these vessels. I understand further that there are certain technical defence features associated with these vessels which could probably be explained to the Deputy more adequately if he were to address a question on the matter to the Minister for Defence.