asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in order to assist food producers in their attempt to provide the full needs of the nation, he will now consider issuing weather forecasts on a regional basis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Issue of Weather Forecasts.
The issue of weather forecasts for agricultural and industrial purposes has been under consideration since the establishment of the Irish Meteorological Service some eight years ago. The recruitment and training of forecasters, normally a slow process, has been interfered with by emergency circumstances to such an extent that it has not been possible to make complete provision for more than aviation purposes. It is anticipated, however, that the issue of forecasts for other than aviation purposes will become possible within a reasonable time, but I am not in a position to say at the moment how soon.