asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state if his attention has been drawn to the stoppage of work by members of the Kerry Blacksmiths' and Farriers' Association because of their inability to obtain adequate supplies of suitable coal at a standard price; and, if so, if he will endeavour to remedy this grievance immediately in order that work urgently required by the farmers of Kerry may be undertaken by the smiths.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coal for Farriers.
Representations have been made to me regarding coal supplies for blacksmiths in certain districts in County Kerry. I have on many occasions explained in the Dáil that supplies of special smiths' coal are unobtainable at present and that blacksmiths must adapt themselves to the use of such coal as is available. Arrangements have been made with local suppliers to enable the blacksmiths concerned to procure supplies of the most suitable coal which can be provided.
I do not consider it practicable to fix a standard price for blacksmiths' or any other type of coal because of the varying prices at which this coal has to be purchased abroad or produced at home and of the varying costs involved in importing and distributing it throughout the country.