Dáil Éireann - Volume 278 - 20 February, 1975

Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Paper Industry.

Mr. Power Mr. Power

7. Mr. Power asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will provide assistance to paper mills now in danger of closing to enable them to change to the production of newsprint, a product which is being imported at present.

Mr. Keating Mr. Keating

Mr. Keating: I understand that the IDA would be happy to discuss with any of the paper mills proposals for the production of newsprint, or other diversification proposals.

Mr. Power Mr. Power

8. Mr. Power asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement on the depressed state of the printing paper and mechanical wood pulp industries and the consequent unemployment of workers supplying these industries.

Mr. Keating Mr. Keating

Mr. Keating: I am informed that in boom conditions in 1974 paper users over-stocked. When a worldwide decline in economic activity was experienced towards the end of 1974, these firms were faced with reduced demands for paper products and have been running down their stocks.

The problems of the paper industry are related directly to general economic conditions. Consequently an improvement of employment prospects depends on an up-turn in trade which, hopefully, will become manifest during the current year. The Industrial Development Authority inform me that despite present difficulties the industry is optimistic about the long-term prospects.

Dáil Éireann 278 Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. Paper Industry.

Questions

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