asked the Minister for Agriculture what arrangements have been made to make available extra supplies of seed wheat, seed oats and seed potatoes for Connemara.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seed Supplies in Connemara.
A seed distribution scheme, intended mainly as a means of introducing and demonstrating the use of improved varieties of seed is, as in previous years, being operated by my Department in the congested districts. Under this scheme, considerable quantities of seed potatoes, seed oats and seed wheat have been made available this season for distribution, at reduced prices, to smallholders in Connemara.
Would the Minister say if a distribution scheme for the seeds mentioned has been made available in recent months, and to what extent it was availed of?
Yes, it has been made available. Something like 300 tons of potatoes, 100 tons of oats and 25 tons of wheat were distributed in Connemara. As a matter of fact, more wheat than that was offered, but it was not all taken up.
Is it a fact that this scheme is not confined to Connemara, but embraces the whole congested areas?
Oh, yes.
I should like to know from the Minister if this scheme will apply to small farmers in West Donegal?
Yes; it applies to the congested districts.