asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the drastic reduction in the price payable to producers for bacon-pigs, recently announced by the Irish Bacon Curers' Association, will have a disastrous effect on pig production; and if he will take steps to ensure that the pig producer is paid an economic price.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Producers and Pig Prices.
There is nothing I can add to the statement I made when this subject was raised by Deputy Hughes on the adjournment of the House on the 4th June.
Is the Minister aware that pig production was totally uneconomic prior to the recent reduction in price and that with the present drastic reduction pig production will cease, and does the Minister not realise that there is urgent need for immediate steps to relieve the situation?
I have covered that matter in my reply.
Will the Minister consider the desirability of withdrawing all interference with the marketing of pigs in this country in view of the present situation?
I have already explained that there is no interference so far as the price paid to farmers is concerned.