asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that sheepskins are fetching from 3/- to 4/- more in Belfast than in Dublin; and, if so, whether he will suspend the prohibition on the export of sheepskins.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Sheepskins.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. My information is that the prices obtainable here compare favourably with the prices paid outside the country. I do not propose to suspend the prohibition on the export of sheepskins. For the Deputy's information I will add that during the 12 months ended March 31st, 1939, as during the preceding 12 months period, the number of sheepskins for the exportation of which licences were issued substantially exceeded the number of skins actually exported.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, if I can satisfy him that the price obtainable for sheepskins outside Eire is substantially higher than that which is being paid by fellmongers within Eire, will he remove the veto on the export of sheepskins?
I am quite sure that if the Deputy satisfies the Minister for Industry and Commerce that that is the case he will take some action.
And the Minister for Agriculture will do his part to see that it is adequate?
I will be on the Deputy's side.
Nothing could be fairer.