asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is proposed that the IDA and Córas Tráchtála will establish a world-wide network of raw material purchasing and information centres; and, if so, if they will keep the Department of Transport and Power informed of developments.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supplies Information Service.
42.
A supplies information service has been established by the Industrial Development Authority and Córas Tráchtála after consultation with the Confederation of Irish Industry. Sources of supply are sought for the requirements notified by Irish industrialists and the network of IDA and CTT overseas offices in the principal supplying countries are used for this purpose. It is for the industrialist to negotiate prices and deliveries with the identified source. Any information at the command of the service is available to Government Departments.
My Department are kept fully informed of developments in the supplies information service; the Department of Transport and Power are being fully informed in so far as they are concerned.
Is the Minister aware that some manufacturers have found their supplies of raw material were cancelled as a result of the so-called energy crisis and that this may bring about a situation of redundancy?
I am, indeed, so aware. This has been a preoccupation of the Department and myself since the full extent of the energy crisis began to emerge probably in mid-November. First, this supplies information service structured through the IDA and CTT is working well. They are to be commended. Secondly, the disruption that was feared, perhaps, two months ago is much less than anticipated. Thirdly, we are extremely concerned with the situation but we have continuing contact both with that service and with CII and individual companies and we are doing our utmost to minimise the adverse effects of the raw materials and supplies shortage which is worldwide but is affecting us less than had been feared.
Could the Minister put even a rough figure on the number of people who might find themselves unemployed as a result?
That is a separate question.
The Minister said he had made an assessment.
Question No. 43 please.