asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the almost complete failure of the wheat crop in the Dingle peninsula, County Kerry, in the present season, he is prepared to increase the supply of spring wheat which, under the seed supply scheme, is due to be made available to that area for 1945.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Seed Supplies for Dingle Peninsula.
I cannot agree with the statement that the wheat crop in the Dingle peninsula was almost a complete failure. Reports indicate that the wheat crop in the peninsula was, on the whole, satisfactory as regards quality and yield. I am aware, however, that in part of the peninsula some failures of winter-sown wheat occurred. Those failures were mainly due to unfavourable weather and soil conditions at the time of sowing the seed.
In connection with the seed distribution scheme, a suitable allocation of winter seed wheat has been provided for the Dingle peninsula, and this seed will be available for distribution at an early date. It is the intention also to distribute supplies of spring wheats in the peninsula. It should be understood that these seed supplies are intended to provide a change of seed for the purpose of maintaining quality and that the quantities available would not permit of general distribution of seed in any area. Farmers requiring supplies of seed wheat should, therefore, place their orders in good time through the usual trade channels.