asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will arrange to have a factory established in North Leitrim which will use the timber and thinnings now being taken in hundreds of tons from the woods in that area and elsewhere, and being transported to other centres, as an industry like this would give much-needed employment and help to solve the emigration problem in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - North Leitrim Factory.
25.
As the Deputy is aware, the Government have provided valuable facilities and incentives to encourage the establishment and development of industries. It is for private enterprise to take advantage of these facilities. The Deputy may take it that any sound proposal that may be formulated by local or other interests for the establishment of a viable industry in the North Leitrim area will be afforded all the assistance within my power.
In view of the fact that you have a tremendous supply of timber in that area and that it is leaving the locality for processing elsewhere, in view of the fact also that there is a very high rate of emigration in Leitrim and there are many smallholders with poor land, and in view of the statements in the Government's programme of economic development, would the Minister not consider this an ideal place for a factory of some description for the processing of timber so that the smallholders of the area would have a means of supplementing their livelihood?
I certainly would like to see a factory established in North Leitrim, but I would point out that in certain timber activities, for example, joinery and furniture, there is already over capacity for the provision of these commodities.
Surely the programme for economic development is to expand our volume of production? Has it come to the stage that we fear over-production in certain lines?
This is an argument, not a question.
Why does the Minister depend on private enterprise in order to give good employment in Leitrim when the Government has the responsibility?
That does not arise out of the question.
Private enterprise is fully catering for timber products already.
Surely private enterprise is not catering for the unemployed people in Leitrim? Can the Minister think of anything else as suitable as that for the locality?
I should like to see somebody take full advantage of the industrial grant facilities and other inducements available. If they do, the Deputy may be assured I will give my full support.
That is no answer to the people who want work.