asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware of the hardship suffered by farmers and agricultural workers owing to the shortage of heavy boots and Wellingtons; and, if so, if he will take steps to have increased supplies made available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shortage of Heavy Footwear.
I would refer the Deputy to replies given in the Dáil to questions asked on the 9th and 30th November last about heavy boots for agricultural workers. The position is still as indicated in those replies, and every effort is being made to ensure that the maximum numbers of men's heavy boots are produced.
Regarding the provision of Wellington boots for farmers and agricultural workers, I would refer the Deputy to the reply given to a similar question in the Dáil yesterday.
Might I ask the Minister whether he will take any special steps to ensure that increased quantities of rubber boots will be imported for this special purpose, for the use of farm workers?
I do not think it is practicable for us to take special steps to increase the importation of rubber boots. When it becomes possible to obtain supplies of rubber boots from abroad, every opportunity will be availed of, but there is nothing that we can do at the moment.
Is not the Minister aware that there are no heavy boots available at all for farm labourers?
Might I point out that there is a difference between the leather that is being given to the manufacturers and the repairers of boots?
I do not think there is any difference between what is supplied to the repairers and the manufacturers.