asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the extensive damage done in recent years in the potato growing districts along the western coast by the eel worm, and if he has caused any research work to be made with a view to stamping out this dangerous pest.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Damage by Eel Worms.
I am not aware that the damage done to potato crops in the Saorstát in recent years by the eel worm has been serious. This worm has attacked crops in a few isolated localities along the west coast where potatoes had been grown on the same land for a number of years. Extensive research work in connection with the eel worm has been carried out in this country and has shown that the pest will not cause damage wherever a suitable rotation of crops is followed.
I wonder if the Minister's attention has been directed to a preparation known by the trade name of "Vapourite," and whether he would take an early opportunity of making publicly known whether the Department approves of that material for dealing with the eel worm pest?
I shall have that matter brought to the Minister's notice.