asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the proposed closing down of the factory manufacturing land drainage pipes at Clarecastle, County Clare, and of the demand for these pipes for work under the land project all over the country, he will take steps to ensure that this factory continues in operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clarecastle Drainage Pipe Factory.
Mr. Moylan
The matter referred to in the Deputy's question was discussed in all its aspects at a meeting which I recently had with representatives of the Irish Clay Products Association and they were informed that such action as may be possible will be taken with a view to maintaining the drain pipe factories in operation.
Was the Minister in a position to give them any indication of what action he proposed to take or does he himself know why the output of this clay pipe factory is not being taken up?
Mr. Moylan
To make assurance doubly sure, I am having an inquiry made through all the area officers in the country. There has been no change in the moneys allowed for land reclamation, but there have been certain changes in regard to the methods found most effective. In some cases pipes are not being used where they were formerly used. Apart from that, I think there was a vast overestimation in the beginning in the number of pipes needed and, while I am making a full inquiry into the matter, hopeful to be able to meet the clay products people, at least to some extent, I must take the view that clay pipes are merely ancillary to the main problem, land reclamation. I will help if I can, but I must concentrate upon my main problem.