asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the dumping of men's heavy duty working boots from Czechoslovakia; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Boot Dumping.
56.
As the Deputy may be aware, complaints of dumping are in the first instance, considered by An Coimisiún Dumpála, a statutory body appointed in accordance with the provisions of the Imposition of Duties (Dumping and Subsidies) Act, 1968.
I am aware that An Coimisiún have received a complaint of dumping of men's working boots from Czechoslovakia and are pursuing inquiries into the complaint. On completion of their inquiries they will report to me on whether injurious dumping is taking place and will recommend what, if any, action, should be taken.
Is the Minister aware that, as a result of this operation, there are factories, particularly in the west of Ireland, in which the jobs of the people engaged in making boots are at the moment in jeopardy? They are working just three days per week. Would he take immediate steps to see that this type of operation is discontinued?
I ought to inform the Deputy, if he is not already aware of the fact, that last year the matter was referred to An Coimisiún Dumpála, which found there was no dumping occurring; it was referred again, but only on 25th April of this year. I have made it clear I want the matter investigated and reported on quickly and, if there is evidence of dumping, I will certainly take any steps in my power to put an end to it.
I have information to the effect that 68,000 pairs of this type of boot have been imported illegally and have been put on the market at a price with which the factories could not possibly compete, £3.25 per pair, and I have also information to the effect——
The Deputy has been given a good deal of latitude. The Deputy has an obligation to ask a question.
Is the Minister aware of this?
I was not aware of the particular information the Deputy has now given the House. He would be doing everybody a service if he would make this information available straightaway to An Coimisiún Dumpála. If he would like to give the information to me I will pass it on.
It is a month since the complaint was made to the Minister. Are there any steps he can take to stop the importation of any goods about which he gets a complaint until such time as the investigation is completed because the damage can be done during that period?
I appreciate the point the Deputy is making. I will examine the situation straightaway and find out how long it will be before we can expect a report. If there are steps I think necessary I will certainly take them. The Deputy is, I am sure, aware that last year's complaint in that specific instance was not sustained.