asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the discrimination by the British Food Minister against the price of Irish turkeys in the English market, he will consider the export of our surplus supply to the distressed areas on the Continent in lieu of sugar and butter, of which commodities our people at home are on short rations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Turkeys.
The bulk of the turkeys produced in this country will be sold within the next three or four weeks. As turkeys are a perishable commodity, it would not now be possible in the limited time available to arrange for their export to the Continent and their subsequent distribution in distressed areas. Apart from this consideration, essential foodstuffs such as sugar or cheese are more suitable for relief purposes and do not present a serious transport difficulty. Butter has not been exported this year for relief of distress on the Continent.
Would the Minister indicate what progress, if any, has been made towards a settlement of the price for turkeys, in view of the arrangement with the British Minister of Food and the later disagreement that arose? At what price will our turkeys be sold now in the British market?
That is a separate question.
Is it not true that, no matter what price the Minister of Food is going to pay, it will not make a ha'porth of difference to the producers, as the Minister for Agriculture is going to collar the money to subsidise eggs?
That is a separate question.
Not one penny will go to those who are rearing the turkeys.