asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that there is grave anxiety among workers in Irish Steel Ltd., Haulbowline, Cobh, because of the scarcity of raw materials such as scrap iron and billets, and further, that no purchases of billets have been made for a considerable period; and if, in view of the grave danger of a partial close-down and consequential unemployment arising from the scarcity, he will have immediate steps taken to have the situation remedied.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Haulbowline Steel Works.
It is the responsibility of the company to regulate the purchase of billets and other raw materials in the light of requirements and by reference to relevant commercial considerations. I have no function in such matters of day to day administration. In order to ensure availability of scrap supplies for the company, the export of scrap metals suitable for this industry is prohibited. I am assured that the company is doing all it can to secure as great a quantity of scrap as possible so as to maintain production and avoid or minimise disemployment.