asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what was the total quantity of pure line seed oats which was available for the use of farmers for the present spring sowing.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supplies of Seed Oats.
The total quantity of pure line seed oats produced in this country and available for distribution this season was at least 9,000 cwts. The produce of pure line seed oats distributed to farmers in previous seasons is also available, but it is not possible to state the quantity of such seed retained for sowing.
Is the Minister satisfied that the quantity is sufficient to meet the requirements of growers in the country?
That is a very difficult question to answer. We are, as the Deputy is aware, trying to make available a large quantity year after year, and we hope to make a larger quantity available. On the whole, it compares very favourably with previous years.
Is the Minister aware that in West Cork a co-operative society is endeavouring to procure good seed for its members and for others in the area, and that when they made an application this year for 75 barrels of pure line seed oats they could get only 15 barrels? That does not look as if there will be a sufficient quantity to go round.
Possibly not.
Will the Minister see that, in the circumstances, there is an opportunity given to such societies to import pure line seed oats?
I may tell the Deputy that any application to import pure line seed oats will not be refused.
That may be in the case of individuals, but I am anxious to know will the Minister facilitate societies?
The Deputy will agree, I think, that most applications do not cover pure line seed; very often we are asked to allow in pedigree seed.
Will the Minister give opportunities to societies such as the one I have mentioned? They want to get good seed oats, either black or white, and they are unable to get that here. In the circumstances, will he give the society permission to import?
If they can satisfy the Department that they are anxious to get in pure line seed, I am sure they will have no difficulty.