asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the balance of payments position and the fact that low cost countries take nothing of significance from this country in return, he will prohibit the importation from these countries of non-essential goods which are being produced in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports from Low Cost Countries.
23.
I do not consider it necessary to prohibit for balance of payments reasons the imporation from low cost countries of non-essential goods which are produced in this country.
Would the Minister give any reason why?
Because I do not consider it necessary.
Does the Minister not think it undesirable that we should accept so many goods from these countries when we do not export to them?
I said that it was for balance of payments reasons. I believe that if you prevented the importation of goods from low cost countries, the same goods would be imported from other countries and there would be no change in the balance of payments position but the consuming public would have to pay more.
Is the Minister indicating that it is his policy to permit the dumping of goods of all descriptions——
No.
——to the detriment of——
There is special protection against dumping. Legislation is being prepared. Dumping is quite a distinct matter.
May I inquire how long it will take the Minister to introduce legislation to protect Irish workers and firms engaged in producing goods?
That seems to be a different matter.
If you prevent goods coming in from low cost countries, the Deputy need not assume that they would be made here. They will be imported from elsewhere and the consuming public would have to pay more.
Surely there is responsibility in regard to where the goods originated, or is the Minister giving up the battle altogether?
The Deputy has come away from the essence of the point.