asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the serious redundancy now arising in the meat processing industry which has resulted in the dismissal of a large number of workers; and what steps, if any, he proposes to take to offset this redundancy.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Redundancy In Meat Processing Industry.
15.
I am not so aware. The total number of animals slaughtered at meat processing premises for some weeks past has been above the level of the same period last year. As the Deputy is no doubt aware I introduced on 1st February last a scheme of payments on exports of good quality beef to Britain so as to put such exports on competitive terms with store cattle exports and thereby assist the meat processing industry.
If I submit information to the Minister indicating the extent of redundancy in some of these factories to be upwards of 100 men, some of them with long-term service, will he then have another look at the situation and accept the position to be as stated that there is serious redundancy in meat processing factories at the present time and that the future does look gloomy for some?
I do not accept at all what the Deputy says. In fact, I inquired from some of the leading firms in this field and in some cases the number of men employed is greater than it was this time last year. There is one firm, of course, which closes down every year at this time. This is a longstanding practice of the firm. It is not in any way a reflection of the situation in the trade. In addition, of course, individual firms may have their own individual difficulties separate and distinct from the situation in the trade generally.
I am not talking of seasonal unemployment. I am talking of the laying off of a complement of nearly 100 men in one factory.
In a particular firm?
Yes.
I am aware of one situation, which is not however a reflection of the situation in the industry as a whole.
Can the Minister assist in the matter?
If I am asked, I will see.