asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the chronic situation of the building industry in Galway city and county; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Galway Building Industry.
54.
I have received representations from a number of sources to the effect that the building industry in Galway has been particularly affected by the difficulties which were experienced by the industry generally in the first three quarters of this year.
This Government, fully appreciating the primary importance of the building industry in the economy, have given particular consideration to it in the context of the new national understanding including a commitment to maintain employment in the industry up to the end of 1981 at the high level obtaining in December 1979.
The recent decision to provide substantial additional capital for the 1980 Public Capital Programme is an indication of the Government's commitment in this regard. Of the £97 million provided, £66 million will be related to expenditure affecting the building industry.
Galway city and county will have a share in the greater building activity generated by this capital investment and will benefit appropriately from the Government's commitment on the maintenance of employment.
In contrast, the building industry was allowed to collapse between 1974 and 1976. Public capital expenditure affecting the industry declined by 4.5 per cent in 1974, a further 7 per cent in 1975 and a further 6 per cent in 1976. Direct employment also dropped by 9,000 between April 1974 and April 1976.