asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce his attitude to the proposal before the EEC Commission in regard to the creation of a centre for observing the market situation in textiles; and if he has obtained any views from the textile industry in this country in regard to this and other developments in EEC textile policy and the action taken by him in regard to them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Textile Policy.
40.
I understand that, in principle, the EEC Commission favour the creation of a centre for observing the market situation in textiles and that they are having a detailed study undertaken of all aspects involving the creation of such a centre. While I welcome the Commission's initiative in this matter, it is not possible for me to comment in detail in the absence of a definitive proposal which must necessarily await the completion of the current study.
We will, of course, have an opportunity of ensuring that the interests of the Irish textile industry are fully considered when such a proposal is being formulated. There has been continuous contact with the industry on issues affecting it in relation to EEC and we have taken their views into account in dealing with these matters.
Would the Minister agree that this is a suggestion that if it is found to be uneconomic such industries in EEC areas can be instructed that they will no longer be covered by any agreement?
No, that is not my understanding of it.
Would the Minister explain why it is necessary to have this review if it is not for the purpose of finding out whether it is being run on an economic basis?
I take it for the same reason that I am at present in the process of setting up a review of the textile industry here in conjunction with the management and trade union movement.
Does the Minister not agree that it will suggest rationalisation if this is necessary when he has finished his review?
Yes.
Does the Minister not agree that in the EEC there will be rationalisation and that small units here have not any hope of surviving?
I do not accept that.
I did not think the Minister would accept it.