asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the continuing reduction of employment in agricultural occupations, he will consider recasting the policy of industrial development to enable smaller industrial enterprises in rural areas to benefit more freely, so that the status quo of employment may be maintained in the smaller towns and villages.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment in Small Towns and Villages.
6.
I can assure the Deputy that any sound economic proposals coming forward for the establishment of industries to provide employment for the smaller towns and villages will be assisted to the utmost by the industrial promotional agencies for which I am responsible. No new policy directives are necessary for this purpose.
While appreciating what the Minister has said, will he not agree that the major portion of the industries are sited in Dublin and in the bigger centres of population? Will he not further agree some direction will be necessary from the Government to ensure that some of these industries will be sited where they are urgently required in the rural districts ?
As the Deputy knows, the whole body of legisation governing this matter is strongly weighted in favour of the underdeveloped areas and the yearly reports of An Foras Tionscal show a considerable number of grants to smaller industries throughout the rural areas. As I said, there is really no need for any new policy directive.
We have not got any of them in Wexford.
Or in the west.