asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether Ireland is participating in the OECD discussions on the standardisation of sizes in footwear; if he is aware of the difficulty which many persons have in obtaining shoes which are a proper fit; if he will state the number of sizes and widths available in Irish made shoes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Footwear Sizes.
17.
Ireland is not represented on the OECD Group of Experts which has under consideration the question of the standardisation of footwear sizes. The Irish footwear industry is, however, aware of developments through its group membership of the Shoe and Allied Trades Research Association which is represented at the discussions. In addition my Department receives copies of the documentation issued by the Group.
I have not received any complaints from people about difficulty in obtaining properly fitting footwear. The Irish manufacturers are aware of the public demand for various sizes and widths through their customers in the distributive trade and they provide a wide range of fittings. In addition, members of the distributive trade who have import quota licences may use these licences to import supplies of special or unusual fittings.