asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement regarding the future development of the cement industry, with due regard to the proposed extension of the factory at Mungret, near Limerick.

I am at present considering this question and I hope to be in a position to make a statement on it at an early date.

Is the Minister aware that for the past two years we have imported 387,000 tons of cement, for which we have paid over £2,000,000? What is wrong that we cannot exercise more control over the cement factories in this country?

The Deputy misunderstands the position. The existing factories are working to maximum capacity.

I know they are, but what is wrong that we cannot exercise sufficient control to make them produce enough cement to meet our requirements?

I do not think the question should be addressed to me. I think it is a disgraceful situation.

I addressed the question to the previous Government and I am now addressing it to the present Government. We are like trespassers in our own country.

We did not have the election soon enough.

I cannot see any change.