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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jun 1940

Vol. 80 No. 16

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Farmers' Butter.

asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the average price offered for farmers' butter in the market held at Dunmanway, County Cork, on June 18th was 7d. per lb.; that similar prices are being paid in Ballydehob and other West Cork centres, and if he will state what steps he proposes to take to ensure that a reasonable price will be paid for farmers' butter.

I am aware that, owing to the difficulties which have been experienced in connection with the export of non-creamery butter, buyers felt obliged to reduce prices in recent weeks. I have, however, been definitely informed that the price paid at Dunmanway on the 18th instant was 8d. per lb. except in a very few cases of inferior quality. In general the recent prices ranged from 8d. to 6d. per pound according to quality.

Most of the difficulties encountered in respect of exports of non-creamery butter have now been overcome and better prices will be obtainable henceforth. If farmers improve the quality of their butter the average prices will be further enhanced as there is a considerable difference between the export value of 1st grade and other grades of non-creamery butter. The prices announced by the Irish Dairy Butter Trade Ltd. from Monday, 24th June, are 10d. per lb. for 1st grade; 9d. per lb. for 2nd grade, and 6d. per lb. for 3rd grade.

Is the Minister aware that in East Cork butter has fallen to 6d. per lb. and is at that price at present?

It is not at that price at present.

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