asked the Minister for Agriculture whether sugar beet-pulp from this season's crop has been or is being exported from this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Beet-Pulp.
As indicated by the Minister for Industry and Commerce in his reply to Deputy Seán MacEoin on 17th November last it was not hitherto possible to have the whole of the output of beet-pulp absorbed on the home market and it became necessary to make advance contracts abroad for the sale of the approximate quantities estimated to be surplus to requirements.
Licences have been granted for the export this season of a limited quantity of beet-pulp to meet such advance contracts. It is not anticipated that in future years any export of pulp will be necessary.
Is the Minister aware that at the present time some people are getting only about 50 per cent. of their requirements, and does he think that is a fair arrangement? Would it not be better to provide for home requirements first?
I believe that what the Deputy says is true, but after this year no more pulp will be allowed out.