asked the Minister for Labour the number of persons employed in the footwear industry on the latest date for which figures are available; and the number of redundancies recorded up to the present date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Redundancy Figures.
22.
The total number of persons engaged in establishments classified to the boot and shoe (wholesale factories) industry for the purposes of the annual census of industrial production was 5,400 in mid-June, 1971. This figure is an estimate and is subject to revision in the light of the results of the annual census for 1971. It covers administrative, clerical and technical staff as well as industrial workers but it excludes outside piece workers.
The number of redundancies in the footwear industry notified to my Department under the Redundancy Payments Acts, 1967 and 1971, in the period 1st January, 1968, to 30th September, 1971, was 416.
Does this mean that fewer shoes are being made in the country now?
That is a separate question.
It does not necessarily mean that. It may be due to a falling-off in exports.
It is not because of more shoes being imported?
I could not say, without notice.
23.
asked the Minister for Labour the number of persons employed in the general textile and garment trades on the latest date for which figures are available; and the number of redundancies recorded up to the present date.
The total number of persons engaged in establishments classified to the textile and clothing industries for the purposes of the annual census of industrial production was 41,800 in mid-June, 1971. This figure is an estimate and is subject to revision in the light of the results of the annual census figure for 1971. It covers administrative, clerical and technical staff as well as industrial workers but excludes outside piece workers.
The number of redundancies in these industries notified to my Department under the Redundancy Payments Acts, 1967 and 1971, in the period 1st January, 1968, to 30th September, 1971, was 2,362.
Does the Minister not think urgent action is necessary because of the statement of the Minister for Industry and Commerce the week before last that this is a very sensitive area? Does the Minister not feel urgent action is necessary to ensure this redundancy figure of 2,362 does not escalate? What measures have the Government in mind to deal with this?
That is a separate question.
The Government have the matter under consideration.
I am sure they have.
The Deputy can be certain.
24.
asked the Minister for Labour the number of persons employed in the furniture trade on the latest date which figures are available; and the number of redundancies recorded up to the present date.
The total number of persons engaged in establishments classified to the furniture industry for the purposes of the annual census of industrial production was 3,600 in mid-June, 1971. This figure is an estimate and is subject to revision in the light of the results of the annual census for 1971. It covers administrative, clerical and technical staff as well as industrial workers but it excludes outside piece workers.
The number of redundancies in the industry notified to my Department under the Redundancy Acts, 1967 and 1971, in the period 1st January, 1968, to 30th September, 1971, was 205.