andMr. Deasy asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will make funds available for the running on a viable basis of the firm of Munster Chipboard Ltd., Waterford and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Munster Chipboard Ltd., Waterford.
18.
The Government have already made every effort to achieve the reopening of this factory. A basis for the reopening was settled after long and detailed negotiations between an Irish company and various State agencies. Regrettably, when details had been finalised the company concerned had to withdraw from the proposed takeover because of the action of a small group of picketers at the factory.
While I understand the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate withdrawal by the Irish company concerned, is the Minister aware that he has power under the Forestry Act to make moneys available and to take over Munster Chipboard? Therefore, would he consider taking over this company and operating it as a nationalised company in order to broaden the whole forestry processing interest? Would he not agree that Munster Chipboard could form an integral part of the overall growth of our forestry policy?
I concur with the concern being expressed by Deputy Collins but I am still hopeful that if a sensible attitude is adopted by the very few people who, against the wishes of the majority of the workers and of the major union involved, are engaged in the picket operation, we can revive the original arrangement we had reached with Cement-Roadstone. On the question of funds, the State has made substantial moneys available in an effort to bring about a joint viable project between Scariff and Munster Chipboard under an umbrella management that would enable a rationalisation programme to take place in respect of production. We have put together a very attractive package.
I should hope also that common sense would prevail in the case of Munster Chipboard; but, if Cement-Roadstone withdraw completely from the negotiations, will the Minister consider taking over Munster Chipboard as well as Scariff and nationalise it with a view to broadening the whole forestry policy?
I would go along with the Deputy to the extent that I would have to consider a whole range of options. As the Minister responsible for forestry I cannot allow a situation to develop whereby outlets of this importance in regard to thinnings from forest lands would disappear. I should have to consider the option suggested by the Deputy as well as considering other options, but I am still hopeful that the Cement-Roadstone proposal can be implemented. Talks are taking place this week behind the scenes at trade union level in an effort to sort out the matter of the picket and I am hopeful that these talks will be successful.
Question No. 19.
One final question——
We cannot spend all day on the one question.
If there is a move by the Minister to take over the company, would he be so gracious as to ensure that there is proper consultation with a view to protecting the full employment at Munster Chipboard?
The primary objective would be to retain as many jobs as possible and, hopefully, to enhance the number of jobs. There is no question about the availability of supplies in our forests.
I am glad to have that assurance.