asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the possibility that Ireland joins the Free Trade Area, he will initiate a buy Irish campaign so as to impress upon the public the urgent need to maintain employment in Irish industries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Buy Irish Campaign.
The Deputy will be aware that such a campaign as he proposes is already being conducted and has been conducted for some years past by the National Agricultural and Industrial Development Association. The campaign has had the full support of the Government. I have this year commended specially to industrialists the St. Patrick's Day parade which is being organised by the N.A.I.D.A.
The promotion of the purchase of Irish goods involves propaganda and publicity. This is primarily a matter for the business interests and voluntary organisations concerned, but it is one in which the trade unions can also play their part. I think that is the only practicable way of conducting such a campaign.
Does the Minister mean that it is not the Government's intention to initiate or to sponsor such a campaign? He said that the N.A.I.D.A. had been carrying on a buy Irish campaign for many years, and their efforts are commendable; but would he not agree that that is not sufficient, in view of the extreme danger to Irish manufacturers? It will be difficult for Irish manufacturers to expand and increase exports, but it will be just as difficult for them to retain the Irish market. Will the Minister agree?
The Deputy appears to have forgotten the experience of the Government of which he was a member in this regard. In 1949, a committee was set up by the then Minister for Industry and Commerce and provision was made in the Estimates for 1950-51 for a sum of £2,000 for advertising and publicising a buy Irish campaign. A further provision of £3,500 was made in the following year. None of that money was spent.
Has the Minister any fund at his disposal now for such a campaign?
Not for a campaign within Ireland.
The Minister agrees it will be very important to the Irish market when the Free Trade plan comes?
I have been preaching that all this morning.
I have heard that; but one day in the year is not sufficient.