asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture if it is intended to adhere to the terms of the offer outlined by the Minister in the Dáil in connection with the establishment of credit societies in the different counties, by which farmers who have lost their stock will be enabled to replace it; if he can state what progress has been made in connection with the establishment of these societies; and whether any steps have been taken either by employing the Gárda Síochána or otherwise to obtain an estimate of the magnitude of this problem and the losses sustained.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CREDIT SOCIETIES.
The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative; but the question of any modifications which may appear to be called for by experience of the actual operation of the scheme will be carefully considered in due course. Numerous applications continue to be received in response to the circular letter issued on the subject, and organisers of the Irish Agricultural Organisation Society are being sent, where their services are desired, to explain the steps necessary for the establishment of credit societies. It is not possible as yet to estimate the extent to which such societies will be established under the scheme. The reply to the concluding portion of the question is in the affirmative.