asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state: (a) what quantities of maize were imported since 1st January, 1947; (b) how these supplies were distributed; (c) whether any improvement in supplies is anticipated, and if so, to what extent; and (d) whether, in view of the scarcity of bacon, he will, in the allocation of feeding stuffs, take special cognisance of the requirements of areas such as Leitrim which depend so largely on pig production.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Maize Imports.
Approximately 5,000 tons of maize have been imported since the 1st January, 1947. This quantity was allocated to former registered maize meal millers and certain co-operative societies and has now been released, together with the balance of undistributed stocks imported during 1946. It is not possible to indicate when further supplies of maize for animal feeding will be imported.
As regards the last part of the question, imported feeding stuffs are being distributed as equitably as possible throughout the country, but in view of the limited supplies available it would not be practicable to make special allocations to particular areas.