asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that over 50 men were laid off by Irish Steel, Ltd., Haulbowline, last week, and that there is grave danger of a further lay-off in the near future; and whether it is intended to proceed now with the erection of the sheet mill so as to provide alternative employment, as there is a big demand for Irish corrugated iron.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Haulbowline Unemployment.
I have been informed by the company that it has been found necessary to lay off workers from the sections engaged in the production of merchant bars and that this is due to a slackening of demand for these bars. I have been assured that every effort has been made, and continues to be made, to get business, so as to minimise the disemployment arising from this cause.
As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the Deputy to the answer given to him on the 30th October, 1957.