asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state when, and for what reason, the standard rate of 6/- a ton for the carriage of turf by rail to the City of Dublin ceased to operate; and if he will state what are the present rates for the carriage of turf by rail.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Railway Rates for Turf.
The uniform rate of 6/- per ton for the carriage of turf by rail ceased to operate on the 19th October, 1936, on which date the Uniform Rate (Peat Fuel) Order, 1934, was revoked. The Order was revoked for the reason that the average length of haul of peat fuel by the Great Southern Railways Company was found to be almost double that which was anticipated when the rate of 6/- was fixed and the rate was consequently entirely uneconomic. On the revocation of the Order, the company, by agreement with the Turf Development Board, introduced certain zonal rates, varying according to distance, for specified limited areas. Amended rates based on the distance from Lyracrompane and Clonsast bogs have recently been introduced with the acquiescence of the Turf Development Board. The existing rate from Clonsast to Kingsbridge which is inclusive of collection at Clonsast and delivery at Portarlington railway station is 12/1 per ton.
Will the Minister say where the zonal rates can be got?
They can probably be got from the railway company.
Is the Minister not in possession of them? Perhaps if I repeat the question on suitable lines the Minister will be able to give the rates?
Yes; I will consider it.