(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Local Government if a more generous apportionment of contracts or orders could, in the interests of local employment, be given to the enamel factory (name supplied) in Clonmel.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clonmel Enamel Factory.
30.
The firm named has been appointed official contractor for the supply of road signs and posts for road signs to local authorities for the contract period 1st July, 1963 to 30th June, 1968, in respect of 127 items out of a total of 129. For 75 of these items they are the sole contractors and for the remaining 52 they hold the appointment jointly with another Irish manufacturer. Where there are two or more official contractors appointed for an item the choice of contractor rests with the local authority.
They have been appointed sole official contractors for the supply of all five types of porcelain enamelled sinks on the Official List for the contract year ending on 30th June next.
In the case of enamelled ware for domestic and institutional use the firm named did not apply for appointment as official contractors for the current contract year. However, of the 60 items for which official contractors were appointed 43 are the products of the firm named.
With regard to commodities not included in the combined purchasing scheme local authorities may make their own arrangements for the supply of their requirements. Local authorities are, however, under instruction from my Department to use, as far as possible in their works, materials and appliances manufactured or produced in the State.