asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state (a) what quantities of onions have been imported into Dublin during the period 1st March to 21st April, 1948; (b) the name or names of the person or firms importing same; (c) the inclusive cost per bag to the importer; (d) the price charged ex-quay by the importers to wholesalers; and (e) the controlled retail price.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Imports of Onions.
The quantity of onions imported into Dublin during the period March 1st to April 21st, 1948, was 23,000 cwts.
It would be contrary to practice to give the information requested in parts (b), (c) and (d) of the question, as the replies would involve disclosure of the business of individual firms. During the period referred to the maximum retail price of onions as fixed by Order was 5d. per pound.
Mr. Lehane
Is the Minister aware that a profit of 14/- per bag was made by some of the importing firms without their having to handle the commodity in question at all?
The Deputy will probably have seen an Order in to-day's papers reducing the price of onions from 5d. to 4d. per lb.
Mr. Lehane
Could I ask the Minister if that in fact affects onions imported into this country within the past week?
Yes.
Would the Minister take steps to ensure that hundreds of bags of onions are not dumped in the river Liffey this year as they were last year?
I certainly would.