asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state what is the population of that portion of West Cavan known as Belturbet Electoral Area, and what is the weekly quota of flour made available for distribution in that area; and whether, with a view to an equitable distribution, he will cause inquiries to be made through the Gárda Síochána as regards the distribution to individual traders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flour Quota for Belturbet Electoral Area.
The population of the District Electoral Division of Belturbet (Belturbet Urban District) is 1,341, according to the Census of Population, 1936. At present the normal deliveries of flour to shopkeepers generally represent 90 per cent. of their average purchases in 1940. As a result of a special investigation carried out recently in Belturbet area, special arrangements were made to release additional supplies of flour to traders. I am not in a position to state what is the actual amount of flour available weekly for distribution in this area, and I do not consider it necessary to institute any further inquiries of a general nature.
Is the Minister not aware that there is general complaint there, with good sound reasons, that a great many people cannot get 1 lb. of flour per person per week on the average, as it is not distributed equitably? If the Minister would act on the suggestion to have inquiries made through the Gárda Síochána in the different districts they would be able to advise the Department as to the position. It is not the business of anybody else. Other people cannot go round to find out the particulars. I think the Minister should take some steps in the matter.
The basis of the complaint, as I understand it, which the Deputy says is a good sound one, is that so much flour was smuggled into that area in the past that normal sales by shopkeepers do not represent the requirements of the district. As I have informed the Deputy, an investigation of the circumstances was carried out in the area and an adjustment in the allocation has been made as a result.
Is it equitably distributed? There are some people getting their share and perhaps more than their share, but are all the people getting it?
So far as I know, they are.
I think the Minister should get the Gárda Síochána to report on the matter.