asked the Minister for Agriculture if his attention has been drawn to the investigation into farm costings in County Roscommon carried out by Mr. O'Connor; and, if so, whether, in view of the fact that these investigations show that the average net income of each adult worker in the area surveyed is considerably below the statutory minimum wage for agricultural workers, he will take steps to enlarge the margin of profit on the agricultural industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Profit of Agricultural Industry.
I have seen the report referred to. As regards the second part of the question I do not think that the Deputy has correctly interpreted the results of this investigation. I would also refer the Deputy to my statement in the Seanad on 12th January.
Is the Minister aware that this investigation, carried out in a fairly fertile district in the County Roscommon, showed that the average net income per acre was £6, and that the average income of each worker on the land in the area was 53/-? Surely, in view of these figures, there is urgent need for the Minister to do something about it.
I can only repeat for the Deputy's information the words that I used in Seanad Éireann, which were:
"I have no doubt that the research productive of the Roscommon findings was conducted with all the scrupulous care of an objective scientist who wanted to prove that the public good might be served by the careful and conscientious survey he attempted to make. I am equally certain that the individuals from whom he sought information, deliberately, skilfully and persistently stuck their finger in his eye."
Arising out of the Minister's reply——
Question 49.
Is the Minister aware that that is a gross insult to the farmers of Roscommon and to the farmers of Ireland generally?
They are my neighbours.
I also resent it on behalf of the farmers of that particular county.