asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that Galway farmers have considerable quantities of potatoes which normally would have been consumed by pigs and other live-stock, and if he is in a position to find a market for those potatoes whilst they are still suitable for food.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Market for Potatoes.
Mr. Brodrick
I am aware that stocks of potatoes on farmers' hands in County Galway as in other potato growing districts are heavier than is usual at this time of the year, but I am not satisfied that the stocks in County Galway cannot be disposed of prior to the end of the season without Government intervention.
Mr. Brodrick
Is the Minister not aware that there are stocks amounting to 2,000 tons in County Galway that cannot be disposed of? Further, is he aware that these potatoes would have been used for live-stock purposes if the classification for the marketing of pigs was altered? I should like the Minister to make inquiries as to the quantity of potatoes lying in County Galway at present that are suitable for food.
The classification as to the weight of pigs has been altered since last Monday.
Mr. Brodrick
Will the Minister make inquiries as to the quantity of potatoes fit for food that are for sale in Galway and cannot be got rid of, while people in other parts of the country are crying out that they cannot get flour?
I have made inquiries, and it has also been reported to my Department and other Departments that there are areas in County Galway where potatoes are not too plentiful.