(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is in a position to make a statement regarding the Cahir Flour Mill, County Tipperary; whether it is about to change hands involving considerable redundancy owing to a projected close-down by the flour milling section of the factory; and if he has any proposals to make on the employment situation which may arise.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Tipperary Flour Mill.
41.
I am not aware that the Cahir Flour Mill is about to change hands.
It is possible, however, that the flour mill may close under the rationalisation scheme which was introduced by the Irish Flour Millers Association to deal with the long-standing problem of excess capacity in the industry. The Deputy will appreciate that, while I have certain statutory functions in relation to the flour milling industry, I am not in a position to require mills to remain in operation.
(South Tipperary): I take it that the Minister has no knowledge whatsoever of any negotiations in progress on this matter?
On the matter of a change of hands?
(South Tipperary): Yes.
No.
(South Tipperary): Does the Minister or the Government intend to allow a condition of monopoly to develop in the flour milling and baking industry?
The millers have had a pretty good "do" out of this Government.
The rationalisation scheme is being carried out by the Irish Flour Millers Association. I have no power whatever to insist that this mill, or any mill, remains in operation.