asked the Minister for Finance if he will state with regard to the detailed projection of the development of the building and construction industry up to 1970 prepared by his Department in consultation with the Department of Local Government, referred to by the Minister for Local Government on 27th October, whether this projection will be published or laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Building and Construction Industry.
4.
The projection in question is one of a number at present being made by the Department of Finance in consultation with other Government Departments. These projections, which cover all industries, are being prepared in accordance with the recommendation—accepted by the Government—of the National Industrial Economic Council that an annual review should be made of progress under the Second Programme for Economic Expansion. When the projections have been discussed with representatives of management and trade unions in each industry, a report incorporating the results will be furnished to the Council which, it is expected, will report to the Government early next year on what reorientation, if any, of policies it considers desirable to achieve the aims of the Second Programme.
The Deputy will appreciate that as these projections are subject to amendment in the light of the discussions I have mentioned, it would be undesirable to publish them.
As these projections will be available not alone to the members of the Government but to the NIEC, surely it is not unreasonable that they would be given to the members of the House?
It is better that the NIEC should get these reports first so that we may have their comments.
After that, will they be presented to the House?
Yes. At least a report will be published from the NIEC.