asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what quantities of (1) barley and (2) oats were purchased by registered millers in the months October, November, December, 1934; and the amounts purchased by registered millers in October and November, 1935, or these figures for such months as are available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Millers' Grain Purchases.
Dr. Ryan
The information which the Deputy probably desires to obtain is as to the extent of the operations under the scheme for the purchase of oats and barley by registered dealers which came into operation on the 4th ultimo. Since that date to the end of the month, 163,000 cwts. of oats and 193,000 cwts. of barley have been purchased by persons or firms participating in the scheme. As no scheme of this nature was in operation last year no comparative figures for 1934 are available.
Was the scheme in respect of last season's crop set in motion early in the spring of 1935? Surely the Minister did take some steps last year to guarantee persons, who would buy oats or barley, against loss?
Dr. Ryan
There was no guarantee.
No guarantee in respect of last year's crop.
Dr. Ryan
None for the 1934 crop.