asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that complaints are still being made that the household ration of paraffin oil for the month of December, 1946, remains undelivered in certain parts of West Cork; and what further action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - West Cork Paraffin Supplies.
I am aware that in some parts of the West Cork area the December ration of kerosene is still outstanding. I am informed by the oil distributing companies that this is due to transport difficulties and particularly to the abnormal weather conditions in recent weeks which retarded the general improvement in distribution which I had hoped would occur as a result of measures taken by the oil companies. I am maintaining the utmost pressure on the companies to improve their facilities and to speed up deliveries of all outstanding supplies.
When the Minister is exercising that pressure, may I ask him to get the oil companies to drop the subterfuge that the bad weather has anything to do with the delay in the delivery of kerosene?
Will the Minister state if it has come to his notice that one of the causes of the delay is due to the railway company's allowing empty tank cars to remain at the siding for two or three days after being emptied instead of returning them to the storage places for refilling?
I am sure that the railway company are endeavouring to turn round the empty tank wagons as rapidly as their limited services will permit. I think there is some ground for the complaint that the recent weather delayed the delivery in areas which must be served by lorry.