asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what assessment has been made of subsidies and support given in Britain, France and elsewhere for the ship-repairing industry in so far as they affect the Irish ship-repairing industry; if assistance will now be given to the ship-repairing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ship-Repairing Industry.
49.
No assessment of subsidies and support in Britain, France and elsewhere for the ship-repairing industry in so far as they affect the Irish ship-repairing industry has been made by my Department. Only one firm in the ship-repairing business has experienced difficulties in recent years. This firm has proposals for re-equipment and reorganisation which are under discussion with the Industrial Development Authority. It would be premature at this stage to say whether any special assistance to the Irish ship-repairing industry will be necessary.
Can the Minister tell us whether some subsidies are provided in these countries?
Yes. There are some subsidies in these countries.
Do we provide any subsidies?
Not for ship repairing.