asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the major contribution played by Kilkenny Design Workshops in enhancing the quality of craft products in Ireland; and if he can give an assurance that the high quality achieved will be maintained in the future.
Written Answers. - Kilkenny Design Workshops.
95.
I am fully aware of the major contribution made by Kilkenny Design Workshops in promoting and assisting the development of good design standards for Irish craft products. I refer the Deputy to my statement in relation to this and the Government's intentions on the future of the design function when I moved a Supplementary Estimate in the House on 3 June 1988.
96.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the number of small to medium sized factories which are supplying goods to Kilkenny Design Workshops; and if he has had discussions with these manufacturers regarding his plans for Kilkenny Design Workshops.
I understand that approximately 350 firms, the majority of whom are craft workers and small manufacturers, are suppliers to Kilkenny Design Workshops. I have had discussions with the Crafts Council of Ireland, which represents the craft workers most immediately affected, on this matter.