asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that as a result of processed feathers being imported from England by the Irish Feather Company, a number of Irish workers have been let go from their employment, and that there is a trade dispute as a result; and, if so, whether he will have a full investigation made into the matter with a view to having an embargo placed on such imports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports of Processed Feathers.
2.
The Deputy will appreciate that I could not discuss in the Dáil the affairs of a private concern. I might say, however, that I am informed that the unemployment referred to is of a seasonal nature and that the workers involved will be reemployed as soon as conditions permit.
If there is a trade dispute, it is open to either party to the dispute to refer the matter to the Labour Court for investigation.
No representations for the imposition of restrictions on imports of processed feathers have been made to my Department by the processors or users here.
Is the Minister aware that in other seasons such slackness did not obtain? Is he further aware that other Irish firms are now having to compete against processed British feathers being imported at rockbottom prices?
There are no restrictions, and there never have been, on imports of processed feathers; neither has any application even been made for the imposition of any restriction.
Is there not a request by the unions?
Mr. Lemass
No, I do not think so. I have no recollection of any application for a restriction on the importation of processed feathers. Serious problems would arise if there were such a request.
If such a request is made by the unions, will the Minister consider it sympathetically?
The matter will be considered sympathetically but certain problems might arise; for example, objections by the Department of Agriculture to the importation of unprocessed feathers might arise.