asked the Minister for Agriculture if, with a view to encouraging the maximum amount of cultivation on the plots of cottage tenants and other smallholders, he is prepared to announce a special scheme for the provision of seeds and manures for such people.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Provision of Seeds and Manures.
I have carefully considered the suggestion of the Deputy but I am not satisfied that, in addition to the facilities usually available, the introduction of a special scheme is necessary.
Will the Minister say if he proposes to communicate to county councils any general scheme in which people referred to in the question might participate?
There are various schemes, as the Deputy may be aware. The county councils have been given. for the last few years, credit for seeds and manures and, in the congested districts, the Department supplies seeds and manures at very favourable prices, sometimes at a reduced price. Of course, in the cities and towns they have the allotment scheme. I do not think it necessary to have another scheme.
Would the Minister say whether he proposes to authorise the county councils to continue with such schemes for this year?
Yes, it is proposed to bring in legislation for that purpose.
And, if in addition to the supply of manures and raw materials for manures that the Minister for Supplies is able to secure, a further supply of manufactured manure becomes available from an external source, will the Minister guarantee to get a licence for its importation and will he undertake to pay the 10/- or £1 per ton bounty? Will he favourably consider that?
I think we will consider every possibility of importing any manure we can get.
And give the bounty on it? Will that be favourably considered?
I do not know.