Vol. 224 No. 7
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the need for a special State agency to promote small industries in rural Ireland and to assist existing rural industries; and that such agencies operate in most European countries; and, if so, if he considers it desirable to have such an agency in operation in this country in view of the continuing high rate of rural depopulation.
38.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the report of a recent survey of small rural industries in County Limerick; and, if so, whether in the light of this report any special steps are being taken to provide financial assistance for small rural industries.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to answer Questions Nos. 37 and 38 together. I have been considering the question of initiating a programme to deal with small industries and I hope to be in a position to make an announcement in the matter very shortly. I have seen the report about County Limerick to which the Deputy refers.
