asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to a Press report of Thursday, 17th June, which stated that 100 men and women had been laid off by Drimnagh Paper Mills, County Dublin, as a result of the effects of unrestricted imports of British paper; and, if so, whether he will state (a) if this report is correct; (b) how long such unrestricted imports have been permitted, and (c) what steps he proposes to take to remedy the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drimnagh Paper Mills.
I have seen the Press report referred to by the Deputy and the statement in it that 100 workers have been disemployed is incorrect. I am informed that no workers have been discharged by the company though it has been necessary to resort to short time working recently because of a falling off in orders. It is not clear how far this is due to imports of paper and I am having the matter investigated. There is a high protective tariff on most of the types of paper manufactured by the Drimnagh Paper Mills. This tariff which was suspended in 1943 was restored on 1st August, 1945.
In view of the fact that there is a strong feeling among the workers at Drimnagh and Clondalkin Paper Mills that an undue amount of British paper is allowed to be imported here which may cause a redundancy in the trade, will the Minister take such steps as he possibly can to ensure that the minimum amount is allowed in?
I am having the matter investigated.
Will the Minister say for what purposes this paper is used, whether it is used as newsprint or for commercial purposes?
Mainly for commercial purposes.
Would the Minister say what is the protective duty?
75 per cent. full and 33? preferential.