asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware that the roofing slates used on the new weighbridge under construction at Baldonnell, Naas Road, Dublin, are imported; and, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Baldonnell (Dublin) Weighbridge.
41.
The construction of the weighbridge in question is being carried out by contract on behalf of Dublin County Council.
I understand from the council that the contractor in this instance purchased the slates in question — the value of which, I understand, would amount to less than £300 — without giving Irish manufacturers an opportunity of providing them and that the county council were not made aware of this fact at the time. I have, however, asked Dublin County Council to ensure that in future Irish manufacturers are given an equal opportunity to participate in all building contracts placed by the council. I have now been assured of the council's full co-operation in this regard.
The importance of giving Irish manufacturers an equal opportunity of quoting for, and providing, materials and components etc. has been brought to the attention of local authorities by my Department and it has been stressed in this regard that this requirement should be observed in the case of products which are supplied in the course of construction contracts of all kinds.
The Deputy will be aware that under EC regulations public authorities are prohibited from taking any action which would discriminate against products manufactured in other member states of the European Community.