asked the Minister for Justice if, in view of the insufficiency of transport hitherto available and of the steps recently taken by the Department of Industry and Commerce to remedy whatever transport deficiency existed, he will remit the penalties recently imposed on lorry owners in County Monaghan for carrying flax and tow to market in lorries not licensed under the Road Transport Act for this purpose.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport Infringements in Monaghan.
Mr. Boland
I am not aware that the position is as stated by the Deputy in first part of the question. If petitions are submitted to me, however, for remission or mitigation of penalties imposed on lorry owners for carrying flax and tow to market in lorries not licensed under the Road Transport Act, I shall review these cases in consultation with the Minister for Industry and Commerce and the district justice who imposed the penalties.
I am obliged to the Minister for his reply. Would he be good enough, in the meantime, to direct contact to be made by his Department with the transport division of the Department of Industry and Commerce where, I believe, he will find confirmation of my description of the present situation?
Mr. Boland
It is not a question for me as to whether or not there is sufficient transport available. That is a matter for the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
That is what I say. If the Minister will direct his Department to make contact with the transport division of the Department of Industry and Commerce I think he will find confirmation there of the description I have given of the position in County Monaghan.
Mr. Boland
I will have to consult the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
I would be grateful if the Minister would.