asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the very low prices prevailing this year for Irish wool; whether his Department are taking any action with a view to securing new and better markets for the product; whether any plan has been considered for utilising in the mills of the Saorstát a larger share of native wool; and whether in view of the big losses being endured by producers, he has any proposal to put forward for improving the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Irish Wool.
The matters referred to in the question are at present receiving the attention of my Department and of the Department of Industry and Commerce, in the light of existing conditions in the wool industry generally. Questions relating to woollen mills, and to the marketing, grading and other commercial aspects of the subject, as distinct from the production of wool, should be addressed to the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
May I inquire whether the Minister saw, in the last few days, a report that there is likely to be a great scarcity of wool in the immediate future? Will he inquire as to the probable accuracy of that report and if he finds it to be accurate will he notify the producers not to part with their wool at the very low prices that prevail to-day?
Dr. Ryan
I have seen the statement and I shall make inquiries.