asked the Minister for Supplies if he will say whether a sufficient quantity of dry seed dressing for cereals is available for this season's requirements, and, if not, whether he has made any representations to the British Government with the purpose of getting a quantity released for export to Éire.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supplies of Dry Seed Dressing.
I understand that the quantities of dry seed dressings for cereals imported during the current year amount to about one-third of normal requirements. There is, however, some possibility of further quantities becoming available in the new year. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
Is the Minister aware that there is plenty of this dressing available, but no representations have been made about it? Some firms have written to the Irish High Commissioner's Office in London, but I believe he has not got any specific instructions from the Department in the matter. Firms which have agencies here are anxious to supply, if the necessary export permit can be secured.
I stated in my reply that there is some possibility of further quantities becoming available.
The Minister in reply to the latter part said no representations had been made.
That is correct.
Is it not necessary that that should be done?
I am not satisfied that it is necessary, or if it is, that it will have any effect.