asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether representations were made to the British Government complaining about the threatened increase in the price of coal supplies to Ireland; and if in view of the serious consequences to Irish industry and the extra burden which will have to be borne by domestic users of coal, he will state what steps have been taken to ensure continued supplies of good quality coal at reasonable prices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of British Coal.
16.
Mr. Ryan
The increases which have taken place apply only to domestic coal and do not affect coal for industrial purposes. I understand that the increases in prices for domestic coal are due to scarcity of this type of coal in Britain and that they will only bring the price to this country into line with internal British prices. The question of making representations in the matter is being considered.
Could the Minister say whether coal importers hope to be able to purchase coal from alternative sources for sale at prices not above the present British level for the same quality of coal?
I understand that alternative means of procuring coal at very competitive prices are available to importers and that, in fact, they do avail of them at the present time.
At prices competitive with British current prices?
I think they are even more favourable to us, if anything.
So there is no reason to anticipate any increase in coal prices?
I do not think so.
Mr. Ryan
Can the Minister give any assurance that the coal will be reasonably clean because the experience of housewives in Dublin over the last couple of years is that coal other than English coal is soiling more clothes on clothes lines than were ever soiled by the people wearing them?