asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the cost to date of the Buy Irish campaign; and whether he is satisfied with its progress to date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Buy Irish Campaign.
22.
Expenditure to date from State funds towards the cost of the Buy Irish campaign amounts to approximately £90,000.
With regard to the second part of the question I am satisfied that the campaign has made an important contribution in alerting the community as a whole to the economic and social advantages of buying Irish-made goods.
How much is provided for this year?
Mr. O'Leary
Will the Minister be dealing with any redundant staff after 1st July?
That is a separate question.
Quite a number of countries have campaigns for homeproduced goods and there is no reason why we should not continue to have it.
Mr. O'Leary
Do you intend to expand it? In the severer conditions this staff will have to meet in free trade conditions, does the Minister contemplate an extension of the existing staff?
I have agreed to certain changes. I will announce them some time.
Mr. O'Leary
For expansion?
No, changes.
Could the Minister say what amount of money is provided in the current year?
£20,000.
Does this mean that less is being spent on the campaign this year?
As I say, I am considering a realignment, reorganisation, of their activities into the more fruitful aspects. I will make an announcement.
There is a possibility of a Supplementary Estimate?
No.
Then, where are you going to get the rest of the money?
I have already made the provision. The money made available will meet the need of the reorganisation.
Does the Minister suggest that there has been a waste of £40,000?
No; it had to be done.
Question No. 23.
Further to the Minister's reply——
Question No. 23.
There is one supplementary question.
Deputies
Chair.
Has the Minister any comment to make on the——
I am calling Question No. 23. I will not allow the Chair to be bullied.