asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware that the balance sheet recently published by Messrs. Goulding, Ltd., manure manufacturers, showed a substantial profit over last year on a considerably reduced output, and, in view of his assurances to the Dáil on 5th March, 1941, that having examined all the circumstances relating to the cost of production, he was satisfied that the price fixed by him of £8 per ton ex-factory for superphosphate was justifiable in the circumstances he will now say what measures he proposes to take to ensure that the amount charged in excess of a fair price will be refunded to farmers, and, if, in order to protect the interests of food producers in the coming year, he will make an accurate examination of the cost of producing manures that are available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cost of Manures.
I am aware that the published accounts of W. and H. M. Goulding, Ltd., for the year to 30th June, 1941, show an increase in profits over those for the year ended 30th June, 1940.
The Deputy will be aware that prices have to be fixed in advance and that the prices of raw materials are not always definitely ascertainable beforehand, especially under present conditions. The accounts of the firm in question are at present being investigated in my Department, and any unreasonable accretion of profits in the past financial year will be taken into consideration in fixing prices for the coming year.
The Minister probably remembers that he was very emphatic, when I pointed out the difference in the ex-factory price of £5 and £8 a ton, that £8 a ton was reasonable in the circumstances. I wonder if he will make a more accurate examination of the accounts now and make sure that the farmers will not be robbed?
So far as last year is concerned, it is now possible to make a very accurate examination of the accounts. I cannot say I will be more accurate next year than I was last year in estimating probable costs of production. A price was fixed on the assumption that costs of raw materials would amount to a certain figure. In practice the raw materials were obtained for less and, consequently, the price fixed yielded a higher profit than was anticipated. It is only possible to rearrange that in retrospect.
Does the Minister remember that, when the prices were brought to his notice, he was inclined to resent the suggestions made in the best interests of the community represented here, and he was not prepared to do anything about it? Is the Minister prepared to do something now about this matter and ensure that the food producers will get the raw materials for production at a fair and just price?
You will never get that as long as there is a monopoly.
Will the Minister reconsider his attitude about Order No. 83, in view of the question of Gouldings and others?
Order No. 83 relates to Gouldings as well.
It relates to boot-lace manufacturers in Ennis as well.