asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is satisfied that the system of issuing import authorisations is working satisfactorily; and if he intends to have the matter reviewed in the near future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Import Authorisations.
24.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the system of national surveillance of imports of certain clothing and footwear which came into operation in June, 1975.
I am satisfied that the system is working satisfactorily and, accordingly, I see no reason for reviewing it in the near future.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there are delays of up to five days' waiting time involved and that that is causing serious trouble for the importing firms concerned? Would he not agree that the system used prior to this authorisation system worked more efficiently and more quickly for the people involved?
I do not know if the Deputy is aware of the background to the introduction of this system. The system of national surveillance came into operation in June, 1975, on a range of clothing and footwear and had been suggested by the European Commission as an alternative to the measure of import protection which had been sought as a means of helping the clothing and footwear industries. It is true that delays up to five days, the maximum, can occur.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say if this system has led to increased imports of clothing and footwear or has there been any decrease?
The system has not led to an increase in imports.
Has it led to a decrease?
The system has not led to an increase. There may have been other factors at work which may have led to an increase or a decrease.
Was there an increase or a decrease?
There has been a slight increase.
Is it not true that these applications have increased by 500 per cent in recent months?
No.