asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what the prospects are of re-opening the Potez factory at Mervue, Galway.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Potez Factory.
45.
I understand that the factory has not closed down and I am informed by the firm that sales and employment prospects are improving.
If it is not closed down, would the Minister state how many are employed and how many have been let go in the past?
I do not know whether or not the Deputy was misinformed and was not aware of what was happening in this factory, but it does seem a little strange that the Deputy should suggest in his question that the factory is closed and is now asking how many are employed there.
How many are workers?
Fifty-five per cent at the last count. The Deputy should know, but, since he does not know, I will tell him that the numbers of employees working in the factory are increasing week by week. There has been an upsurge in the market available for the products of this factory and it is necessary, working on the stocks of heaters in store, to make certain modifications for the new market which has been opened up. This work is going on; the employment is increasing; and the prospects are quite satisfactory for this firm.
Would the Minister state, each week for the past three months, how many were employed?
I should like to know whether or not it is a fact that irresponsible statements by Members of the Opposition are impeding the progress of this factory?
Hear, hear.
If the responsible Ministers can open it, let them do it.
Deputy Coogan did not know whether it was open or not.