asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware that turf workers who reside considerable distances from their homes are unable to obtain tyres or tubes for their bicycles at less than four or five times the regular prices, and that the whole trade in these commodities is carried on in a black market; and whether, in view of the essential character of the work on which these men are engaged, he will take steps to ensure that bicycle parts, etc., will be made available to them at reasonable prices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prices of Bicycle Tyres.
The maximum prices of bicycle tyres and tubes have been fixed by Order. Any cases in which prices are charged in excess of those fixed by the Order which arc brought to the notice of my Department will be immediately investigated and appropriate action taken.
Does not the Minister realise that you cannot buy a tyre or a tube in a shop at all? The only place you can buy a tyre or a tube is in the black market. Will the Minister take steps to deal with the whole position by commandeering the supply of tyres and tubes available, and making them available at the price he has fixed?
The total supply is about 5 per cent. of the normal.
There is a black market for tyres and tubes, and nothing has been done about it.