asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of the anxiety felt by workers in concerns producing enamelware at the effect on their employment of increasing imports of these goods from low labour cost areas, particularly Communist China; and that this anxiety is particularly felt by workers in a Clonmel concern (particulars supplied); and whether he will urgently investigate this matter to protect the workers concerned from such unfair competition and serious threats to their employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imported Enamelware.
70.
I have no evidence that imports of enamelware from low labour cost areas are appreciable or are increasing. The Deputy may rest assured that any complaint supported by reliable evidence will be fully investigated.
May I ask the Parliamentary Secretary if he is satisfied that our anti-dumping regulations are adequate to cope with imports from such low labour cost countries or is there the likelihood of circumvention of these anti-dumping regulations?
If the Deputy has any evidence that imports of enamelware will affect home industry, certainly, the Minister will be willing to have another look at it.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that I specified a particular industry in my constituency which claims to be affected as a result of the importation of enamelware? Has the Parliamentary Secretary had time to investigate the matter I referred to in regard to that industry?
If the industry named by the Deputy can put forward any evidence to the Department of Industry and Commerce, the matter will be investigated.
The trade union representing the workers can.
I am not aware that they have made representations.
They did to me.
If the industry involved would get in touch with the Minister, I am quite sure that he will examine the matter.