asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if builders who have been unable to obtain supplies of Irish slates, have been informed by the Department that if they use imported slates their grant will be reduced; and if he is aware that the effect of this policy will mean the dismissal by builders of their existing staffs until adequate supplies of Irish materials are available.
Written Answers. - Supply of Irish Slates.
I cannot stress too much the importance of securing the use of all available native building materials in the construction of houses under the Housing Act. I am aware, however, that at present the supply of Saorstát slates has fallen short of the demand and applications for permission to use imported roofing materials are entertained by the Department.
The use, where suitable, of Saorstát-manufactured roofing tiles as an alternative is encouraged by the Department, and in certain cases where applicants have shown a tendency to prefer imported roofing materials they have been warned that such action may lead to a reduction in the amount of the grant.