asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that orders for lithographic and other printing work are being sent outside the Saorstát, and if he is aware that the imprint of Irish manufacturing firms frequently appears on this and other classes of imported goods, that can be produced equally well in this country, and, further, if he can state whether steps will be taken to prevent a continuance of this unfair competition and the consequent loss of employment in the Saorstát.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - ORDERS FOR PRINTING.
PEADAR UA DUBHGHAILL
I am aware that orders for lithographic and other printing work are being sent outside the Saorstát, and that the imprint of Irish manufacturing firms frequently appears on this and other classes of imported goods. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce took action in this connection some time since. They requested the Saorstát Revenue Commissioners to prohibit the entry of goods of this description at Saorstát ports, unless the importers complied with the terms of the Merchandise Marks Act, namely, by having printed on the goods in question wording indicating the country of origin— in as legible lettering as that in which the name of the Irish firm appeared. The Revenue Commissioners issued an instruction to the Customs officials at Saorstát ports to this effect. Since then a fairly considerable number of consignments of such goods have been refused entry. This action, the Ministry are aware, has had the effect of diverting to Saorstát manufacturers a fair amount of orders which otherwise would have gone elsewhere to be executed. It is possible that despite the vigilance of the Customs officials, goods of this description may, occasionally, escape detention. If the Deputy knows of such a case, and will bring it to my notice, I shall take whatever action is necessary in the matter.
Arising out of the Minister's answer, I would like to ask if the Minister will consider the advisability of introducing legislation with a view to having the place of origin determined by label or imprint in the matter of that class of goods manufactured outside the Saorstát?
That raises a question of a type not completely dealt with under the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887, which we have taken over. If the Deputy will not build too much on the promise, I will have the matter considered.