asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what prices are at present being paid to farmers for certified seed potatoes (i) for use in the alcohol factories; and (ii) for export.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Seed Potatoes.
Mr. Blaney
There is no fixed price for certified seed potatoes in the home market.
Potatoes being sold to the Ministry of Food at present are being paid for at prices in the range £11 8s. 6d. to £16 5s. 9d. f.o.b. according to variety.
From these prices must be deducted marketing costs, transport charges and merchants' commission so that the prices paid to farmers fluctuate according to district, variety and other factors.
Mr. Blaney
Is the Minister aware that certified seed potatoes are being delivered at the alcohol factories?
Why not send them to Mayo?
As the Deputy no doubt is aware, the alcohol factories are under the administration of my colleague, the Minister for Industry and Commerce. Therefore, I would suggest to the Deputy that any questions which he requires to have answered in relation to the alcohol factories might more appropriately be addressed to him.