asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the inadequacy of supply and variety in electric light bulbs of Irish manufacture available through retail and wholesale outlets; and the action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. - Electric Light Bulbs.
73.
I have received no representations in regard to the inadequacy of supply or variety of electric light bulbs of Irish manufacture. The sole Irish manufacturer is making a complete range of general lighting service bulbs in the range 15 to 200 watts. There is now no quantitative restriction on the import of bulbs and duty free licences are freely available for bulbs outside the range of the Irish manufacturer.
I was informed earlier today that I am scarcely heard in the House, not through any lack on my part but apparently through some lack on its part. I have been further informed that even during Question Time most of what I was asking or saying was not capable of being recorded by the Official Reporters. I am sorry for that but it is not quite my fault. So far as the Parliamentary Secretary's reply is concerned, within my knowledge there is a very low supply, if not a scarcity, of a variety of bulbs held by wholesalers at present. Apparently, the manufacturers are the people responsible. If they are not prepared to manufacture the supply and variety needed should there not be at least the opportunity to import without any let or hindrance that which would supplement the available supply?
I do not wish to be repetitive but the original reply said no representations in regard to the inadequacy of electric light bulbs has been received in the Department. Further, it stated that duty free licences are freely available for bulbs outside the range of Irish manufacturers if it is necessary to import bulbs which are not being manufactured here.
I am not talking of the variety outside the normal range. As regards the Department receiving representations, what I am saying is that this is the situation whether or not the Department are aware of it. If they are not so aware, would they make some inquiries in this regard because in trade circles supplies are not readily available and long delays for very minor quantities are the order of the day?
I take it the Deputy has in mind a particular variety of bulbs, not bulbs in general, and if he has a particular variety in mind and if he makes the titles of those varieties available to the Department I can assure him that the Minister for Industry and Commerce will have the matter investigated. In the absence of specific complaints I am sure the Deputy will appreciate it is difficult for the Department to make productive inquiries.
They are, in fact, coloured bulbs of all descriptions whether screw type or the other type, candle bulbs, twist and flame, and the usual run-of-the-mill bulbs outside the ordinary white and pearl types.
I have noted what the Deputy has said and I shall convey it to the Minister for Industry and Commerce.