asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he is aware of how essential the service of the IIRS Dyehouse (Textiles Division) is to its customers who employ up to 2,000 people in this country; and the steps he is taking to ensure that the IIRS are in a position to maintain and develop this service to safeguard the future of the 60 companies and businesses now depending on it.
Written Answers. - IIRS Dyehouse.
415.
I am indeed aware of how essential the dyehouse service provided by the Institute of Industrial Research and Standards is to their customers. I can assure you that the institute are committed to continuing and expanding the small lot dyeing service within the limits of their available resources.
As the Deputy is aware, the IIRS recently purchased additional small lot dyeing equipment. I understand that the institute have regular meetings with the Small Lot Dyeing Liaison Committee who are representative of textile interests in an effort to identify the needs of the customers and how best to meet them.