asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state whether he is aware that potatoes are being exported in sacks printed "Ministerio de Agricoltura, Valencia," bearing the name of the county of origin of the potatoes, and a seal bearing the words "Department of Agriculture, Dublin"; and if he will state what the price and conditions of purchase of those potatoes are, through what Irish agency the potatoes are being exported, the extent to which the potatoes already dispatched have been paid for, and what further such exports of potatoes are contemplated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Potatoes.
I am aware that potatoes have been exported in sacks bearing the wording mentioned in the Member's question. Under the provisions of the Agricultural Produce (Potatoes) Act, 1931, potatoes may be exported from this country only by licensed exporters and they must have been packed in bags bearing prescribed particulars as to variety and district of origin and examined, passed as suitable and sealed by inspectors of the Department of Agriculture.
The above mentioned requirements were fulfilled in respect of the potatoes referred to, but I am not aware of the prices paid to the licensed exporter, the extent to which the price has been paid, the conditions of purchase or whether further similar purchases are contemplated. These are matters outside the purview of the above mentioned Act.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, are we to understand that these potatoes were consigned to the Minister for Agriculture of the Communist Government in Valencia and that does not transgress any of the international agreements entered into by the Government against the supply of essential materials to the Communist Government?
I do not think so; I presume not.