asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Tourism the reason State-sponsored building projects are using imported paints, zinc rich primers, when these paints are produced more cheaply by Irish manufacturers, and are available on the market.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imported Paints.
3.
In the absence of specific details I would be unable to state whether imported paints are being used in State-sponsored projects even though such paints may be produced more cheaply by Irish manufacturers and are available on the Irish market. However, an important element in the three-year programme to promote the sale on the home market of Irish-made goods is the active involvement of all State bodies in promoting the objectives of the programme not only through their purchasing decisions but through their influence on individuals and on firms in their various spheres of activity. Furthermore, comprehensive information on Irish manufacturers is readily available. Consequently, I would expect that where a suitable Irish product is available, this rather than a more expensive imported product, would be used.