asked the Minister for Supplies whether he is aware that there is a great surplus of turf in Leix and Offaly for which no market can be had and if he will consider allowing this turf to be sold in non-producing turf areas so that the turf cutters may experience no loss; and if he will specially consider securing some market for surplus turf in Clonaslee area, County Leix.
Ceisteanna. — Questions. Oral Answers. - Turf Supplies (Leix and Offaly).
I am advised that existing markets within the Counties of Leix and Offaly are capable of absorbing the total output of turf in those counties. Fuel Importers (Éire), Ltd., are, however, prepared to purchase surplus turf of good quality offered at reasonable prices on rail at nearest station.
There is no railway station convenient to the area in which there is a surplus of turf in Leix. The same applies to Ferbane where, I am told, there is a large supply of turf for which there is no market. It is most unfair to the men who put their money into turf production if a market cannot be made available for the turf. Will the Minister have the matter investigated?
I have nothing to add to the reply I have already given.
They do not give a damn. People are dying with the cold in Dublin because they cannot get turf and there is no market for it in the country.