asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that in a number of areas in Dunmanway (County Cork) Rural District, the September ration of kerosene had not been delivered by the 12th October; and if he will insist that regular distribution, in good time, of kerosene be carried out in future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Distribution of Kerosene.
There has been delay in the delivery of kerosene to certain areas because of the irregularity in the arrival of supplies from abroad and of the need, when supplies did arrive, for giving priority to the requirements for harvesting operations over the requirements for domestic purposes. The question of delivery of petroleum products is continuously under discussion with the oil distributing companies and all possible measures are being taken to ensure the prompt and regular delivery of supplies in all areas.
Up to a day or two ago, the position complained of in the question remained. In a number of the rural areas the allowance for September had not been delivered while the allowance for October had actually been delivered in the towns. Has the Minister any control over this unsatisfactory system of distribution?
I have suggested to the oil distributing companies that their distribution arrangements, are unsatisfactory but I must recognise that they have very considerable difficulties to contend with in present circumstances.
The Minister will appreciate that, in rural areas, kerosene is required more than in the towns and it seems entirely unfair to have the allowance for September undelivered while the allowance for October has been supplied in adjoining towns. I ask the Minister to inquire into the position.
If the pool were abolished, there would be deliveries in the morning.