asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that formerly Donegal cured herrings secured a ready market in Germany and Poland, and that now, owing to the prohibitive tariff imposed by those countries on herrings, there is no sale in those countries for herrings, and whether, in view of the preferential treatment accorded German and Polish products by the Government, any attempt has been made to secure reciprocal treatment for Donegal cured herrings, and if not, if he will state whether there is any prospect of such agreement being reached.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Markets for Cured Herrings.
I have to inform the Deputy, in the first place, that neither German nor Polish goods of any kind enjoy preferential treatment on entry into the Saorstát. The possibility of securing more favourable entry, so far as duties are concerned for Saorstát herrings into Germany, Poland and other countries has been carefully considered and the Deputy may rest assurred that no opportunity of improving the position will be lost.
In the case of Germany, the position has not changed from what it was in November, 1932, when the President, in reply to a question from the Deputy, stated that, owing to distress in the German fishing industry, the duty on imported herrings had been substantially increased with a view to protecting the home industry. The prospects of having the position altered in favour of Saorstát herrings are not good at the moment but every effort will continue to be made in the direction of obtaining, if possible, some easement from the present high duties.