asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a number of employees have been on short time in the hosiery factory of Smyth and Company, Balbriggan; and, if so, whether he will consider giving this industry the necessary protection so as to keep the workers in constant employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Short Time at Balbriggan Factory.
I am aware that a number of workers employed by Messrs. Smyth and Company, Limited, Balbriggan, have been on half time since the end of last month. The hosiery industry, which is at present protected by a tariff on hosiery goods and by quantitative restrictions on imports of silk and artificial silk hose, has sought increased protection and the question has been referred to the Industrial Development Authority for examination.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary tell us if the Government will consider setting up a commission to keep those people, who were in constant employment under the Fianna Fáil Government, employed, because every other week I am raising questions about unemployment in County Dublin?
Probably more questions than unemployed.
The Deputy is aware that the factory was closed during the Fianna Fáil term of office, and the practice of laying off workers for a period, or continuing to employ them part-time, is not new.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that when Fianna Fáil went into office this factory was closed and, as a result of Fianna Fáil policy, it was reopened and protected and the workers got full employment under the Fianna Fáil régime?
Historical research!