asked the Minister for Finance whether (1) he has fixed the price of turf on or adjacent to the bog (or at any other central place) and, if so, whether he will state the price or prices so fixed; (2) he has fixed or contemplates fixing within specified zones a uniform charge for the transport of turf by the several systems of transportation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Turf Prices and Transport.
The answer to the first part of the question is "No"; and to the second part that zonal distance rates have been fixed by agreement with the railway company.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say why it is possible for the Turf Development Board, a State subsidised concern, to fix prices for turf produced by them, while the same procedure cannot be applied to the fixing of prices for turf produced by private producers?
The question of the fixing of turf prices is a very difficult one. It is under very careful consideration, and I hope a statement on the whole matter will be made shortly.
Why does the Government allow public bodies to treat men working under similar conditions——
Why does not the Deputy put down a question on the Order Paper?
Your Department has sent word not to allow the public body to treat the men in a proper fashion.