34. Mr. BIRNEasked the Minister of Munitions if he can state whether Major Downie, the director of the Dublin munitions factory, has resigned his position; if so, for what reason; if he is aware that since Major Downie's absence from Dublin the output of the factory has been reduced and that, owing to the anti-Irish actions of one of the officials, the men had to temporarily cease work on Friday last as a protest against his conduct; if he is aware that there is a conspiracy on foot by anti-Irish officials to reduce the output of the factory and to provoke trouble with the employes in order to harm Dublin city as a manufacturing centre; and if he will cause inquiries to be made into this conduct?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARI to the MINISTRI of MUNITIONS (Sir Worthington Evans)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I am informed that Major Downie resigned because he did not agree with certain measures taken to increase the efficiency of the Brish factories. The temporary stoppage of work referred to was due to the dismissal of an incompetent foreman. know of no grounds which justify the statement that there has been any conspiracy as suggested, or, indeed, that any officials have taken any anti-Irish action. On the contrary, the action taken has been directed to improving the efficiency and reducing the cost of the output of the factories so that they may be a credit to Irish industry.
§ 35. Mr. FIELDasked the Minister of Munitions whether it is proposed to use the resources of contractors who have suitable factories and staffs for the construction of aeroplane parts and other war material in Dublin and the rest of Ireland?
§ Sir W. EVANSIt is proposed to utilise Trish resources for certain forms of aircraft work. Some orders have already been placed.
§ Sir W. EVANSI must have notice of any detailed orders, but some orders have -already been placed.