asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he will consider rescinding the Emergency Powers Order suspending the existing duty on cycle frames and forks imported into this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cycle Frames and Forks.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has been informed by the Industrial Development Authority that a group (Hercules and T.I.) of British cycle manufacturers were, in the spring of last year, anxious to manufacture here cycle frames and forks; and if, in view of that fact and of the existence of an Irish concern already prepared to engage in this type of manufacture, he has satisfied himself that it is justifiable to continue the retention of the Emergency Powers Order suspending the protective duty.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that for many years past there has been consistent organisation and co-operation among a large ring of British cycle manufacturers to prevent the manufacture of bicycle frames and forks in Ireland; and, if so, whether he proposes to take any action in the matter.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 77, 78 and 79 together.
The action to be taken in regard to the suspended customs duty on certain cycle parts will be considered at the stage deemed most appropriate, having regard to the objective of ensuring the establishment here on a sound economic basis, of a cycle manufacturing industry.
Industrial proposals either by individuals or groups are regarded as confidential and action in relation to them cannot appropriately be the subject of public discussion by way of question and answer, before such proposals reach fruition.
I am not aware that there has been concerted action on the part of British cycle manufacturers to prevent the production of cycle frames and forks in this country. Such information as I have suggests quite the contrary.