asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the high cost of pig feeding stuffs, and the increasing difficulty of small farmers in obtaining credit, have resulted in a decline in pig production by small farmers, and the tendency of large-scale production of pigs near the curing centres by those who have capital and are in a position to buy large quantities of feeding stuffs wholesale; further, if he is aware of the consequent diminution in the income of such small farmers, and if he will have investigation made with a view to the formulation of a scheme whereby the small farmer will be enabled to buy feeding stuffs as cheaply as his bigger competitor.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cost of Pig Feeding Stuffs.
Dr. Ryan
There is no evidence that the production of pigs on small holdings has declined, or that there is a diminution in the income derived from pig feeding on such holdings. As regards supplies of feeding stuffs, I am aware that farmers in many areas purchase their requirements through their own co-operative societies, and I do not consider there is necessity for making an investigation into this aspect of the matter mentioned.