asked the Minister for Finance whether imported slates were used on the roof of the new Garda station at Killarney, County Kerry; if Irish slates are on a par with the best quality imported slates; and the value of the slates which were imported.
Written Answers. - Slate Imports.
98.
Natural (i.e. quarried) slates were used in the roof construction of Killarney Garda station because of the particular location and to satisfy the requirements of the planning authority, Killarney UDC. Such slates were not available in Ireland at the time. Following receipt of competitive offers an order for slates worth £15,000 was therefore placed through the Irish agent of an Italian supplier. Natural slate cannot be compared with manufactured alternatives which are produced in this country.
99.
asked the Minister for Finance the reason imported slates were used on the roof of the new Garda station at Ennis, County Clare; if Irish slates were on a par with the best quality imported slates; and the value of the slates which were imported.
A contract has not yet been placed for the construction of a new Garda station at Ennis, County Clare. While the planning authority at first stipulated natural slate for the roof, it has now been agreed that an Irish manufactured roof finish will be used.