asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that there is a great scarcity of seed oats in Leitrim; and if he will indicate whether it will be possible to make a further allocation to Leitrim farmers of either native or Scotch oats at a cheap rate, as otherwise many farmers will be unable to seed their grounds this season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seed Oats.
While I understand that the supply of seed oats available this year is not as plentiful as in previous years, I have received no reports of a serious shortage in County Leitrim or elsewhere. If, however, there are any growers in that county who are experiencing difficulty in securing their requirements they should communicate with the Acting Secretary to the County Leitrim Committee of Agriculture, Main Street, Carrick-on-Shannon, or with my Department.
The object of my Department's scheme for the distribution of seeds at reduced prices is to assist in providing a change of seed for a number of the more needy smallholders in certain parts of the congested districts. The funds provided for this purpose are restricted and do not permit of the supply of seeds to farmers generally throughout these districts. I am satisfied that the quantity of seed oats allocated for distribution under this season's scheme in County Leitrim was as generous as possible having regard to the needs of other areas. Accordingly, I regret that I cannot see my way to accede to the Deputy's request to increase the allocation to County Leitrim.