asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the Dairy Disposals Company, Limited is quite capable of engaging in the manufacture of cans at their factory at Lansdowne, Limerick; and if he will have them examine the project in view of the demand existing with Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann Teo. and other firms who now import all their requirements.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dairy Disposals Company: Manufacture of Cans.
14.
I am aware that the Condensed Milk Company of Ireland (1928) Limited manufacture at their factory at Lansdowne cans suitable for the packing of the company's condensed milk and sterilised cream. I understand, however, that it would not be an economic proposition for the company to incur the heavy capital expenditure that would be involved in equipping the factory to supply the various types and sizes of tins required for the food packing industry generally.
When was an investigation made into the position, an investigation of the nature which the Minister mentioned? I understand it was made some years ago.
That was four or five years ago. That is correct, but those who have made it are satisfied that no change has taken place since, of a kind that would warrant the extension suggested in the Question.
Does the Minister himself not agree that there has been an enormous expansion in the trade generally, particularly in canned goods? Would he have the matter examined again?
I have no objection to asking them to examine it again but I can see myself that the price of cans, even the smallest fraction per can, is a very important matter. With the limited experience I have of this work, it would be difficult to see how we would have a sufficient demand here to warrant a plant so large, even if the extension costs would be comparatively small.
15.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if the Dairy Disposals Company, Limited will engage the female employees at Lansdowne, Limerick, who become redundant annually at this period, in the manufacture of tins or tops.
I understand from the Condensed Milk Company of Ireland (1928) Ltd., which operates the factory at Lansdowne, that this would not be feasible, since, for technical reasons, it is essential that the manufacture of the tins and the filling and closing of them should proceed more or less simultaneously.