asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will institute an inquiry into the working of the BIM boatyards with a view to ascertaining (i) the cause of the present crisis in the yards and (ii) the steps necessary to ensure the continuance and expansion of these boatyards.

I am making a full investigation into the problems of the BIM boatyards with a view to finding a satisfactory solution.

Will the Minister give exceptional assistance in view of the fact that our own boatyards in private hands are in competition not mainly with the BIM yards but with foreign companies and foreign yards who are building big boats at the big cost of £1 million and £1.25 million today, and that this will continue?

I agree with Deputy Blaney that foreign boatyards come into the picture as well and that at the moment this is a question of massive oversupply and over-capacity in regard to the production of boats on the world market. Our fishermen are getting colossal bargains on the world market and we cannot stop them doing that.

What form is the inquiry going to take? Will it be a public inquiry, a sworn inquiry or a private inquiry held by the Minister's officers?

It is already taking place at my behest.

Is it a private inquiry?

It is.

Would the Minister consider it important for the State to retain a presence and control in the matter of shipbuilding in these yards?

I am glad that Deputy O'Leary asked that question. In the last analysis, any arrangements with any private interest who might move into boatyards in some capacity will involve the ultimate control of the ownership of these boatyards residing in the State.

In relation to the State——

Question No. 22. The Deputy is asking supplementary questions in relation to questions that we have passed.

That would involve a clause being written into the lease that yards could be used only for building and construction.

The Minister mentioned an inquiry. Can he give this House the guarantee that we want, that no sackings will take place?

22.