31 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the scarcity of skilled operatives for the construction industry; and the steps, if any, he proposes to take to remedy this situation. [4437/97]

The construction industry in Ireland is currently enjoying significant growth in demand with output expected to have increased by 13 per cent in 1996, following an increase of 14 per cent in 1995. Output in the industry is expected to be £5,725 million in 1996.