asked the Minister for Agriculture if he contemplates introducing proposals for legislation at an early date dealing with the production and sale of milk, and when it is expected to have the Bill ready.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Production and Sale of Milk.
Dr. Ryan
Proposals in regard to the regulation of the wholesale price of milk supplied to Dublin and possibly other urban areas are at present under consideration. I am not yet in a position to say when a Bill on the subject can be introduced.
Is the Minister aware that thousands of gallons of milk come into Dublin daily and are distributed for human consumption as liquid milk; that the cows from which this milk comes are not under the clinical supervision of any veterinary officer; that such milk in Northern Ireland is prohibited from being used for human consumption, or even for the making of bread or pastry; and does he propose to take any action in the matter?
Dr. Ryan
If that question were addressed to the Minister for Local Government he might take action.
It is the Minister for Agriculture who has power to make an Order to allow such milk into the city under the Milk and Dairies Act.
Dr. Ryan
Only if the Minister for Local Government asks him to do it.
Has the Minister made an Order permitting such milk to come in?
Dr. Ryan
No.
How is it coming in then?
Dr. Ryan
It comes in without permission.
Has the Minister for Justice not been informed of that, and has he not taken the appropriate action?
Dr. Ryan
There is no Order made in connection with it yet.
Then we are passing laws here and we are not carrying them out.
Dr. Ryan
They will be carried out.