asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is a fact that Córas Iompair Éireann has given an order for the construction of 1,500 to 2,000 wagons of which the undercarriage and upper framing are to be of steel, and, if so, if he is aware that such action is definitely opposed to the best interests of the company and of Irish wagon builders and wood-cutting machinists who could produce a more enduring and economic vehicle by the utilisation of Irish-grown timber in both undercarriage and upper framing; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Construction of Railway Wagons.
I am informed that Córas Iompair Éireann are arranging for the construction of 1,000 railway goods wagons in which steel underframes and steel upper framing will be incorporated. I understand that this is the normal method of construction of the type of wagon concerned and that Irish-grown timber, while suitable for the flooring, would not be suitable for the undercarriage or upper framing. I also understand from the company that the availability of the steel components in question will, in fact, prevent a reduction of existing employment.