asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has any information on stocks of products which are in short supply, such as timber and paper; and if he will make a statement in respect of such products, with particular reference to future prospects.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Products in Short supply.
5.
A survey is at present being conducted jointly by the IDA and the Confederation of Irish Industry to establish the stock situation for materials in the different sectors.
This will establish a comprehensive factual basis for taking decisions to assist industry further in securing materials. Timber and paper—the two materials mentioned by the Deputy— are in worldwide shortage as a result of world demand outstripping existing production capacity. The IDA/CTT supplies information service is already helping industry to locate overseas supplies.
Has the Minister any permanent body or organisation within his Department or under his jurisdiction which could act as watchdogs for the producers and the people depending on raw materials and which would be able to give them guidance from time to time particularly in regard to any early indications of change?
There is not such a permanent body at the moment. In normal circumstances the play of supply and demand and the market forces are able to supply the requirements of industry.