asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that there is grave dissatisfaction with the delay in the announcement of the marketing arrangements for the 1949 certified seed potato crop; that in previous years this announcement was usually made before January; and, if so, whether in view of the delay of at least six months, he will now make a definite statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seed Potato Crop.
Mr. Blaney
I am not aware of any such dissatisfaction as is referred to in the question, nor do I see any reason why there should be dissatisfaction. Marketing arrangements and prices for the 1948 crop were announced on 15th October, 1948; for the 1947 crop on 29th November, 1947; for the 1946 crop on 31st December, 1946. I hope to let farmers have the information in respect of the coming crop much earlier than was provided in any of the three years referred to.
Mr. Blaney
Will the Minister recall the answer that he gave to the same question approximately six months ago when he stated that he hoped, at that time, to make a statement very soon? Will he say what he intends to convey when he says "very soon"?
Would the Deputy recall that, in every transaction involving purchase and sale, there are two parties? We are the sellers, and in this matter the convenience of the purchaser has to be considered, too. There are several of them.