asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that there is general dissatisfaction in regard to the prices paid to producers for bacon pigs; and, if so, whether, in view of the importance of this industry, he will take steps to secure a better price for the producer.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Price of Bacon Pigs.
I would refer the Deputy to the statement I made on pig prices at Sligo on 15th October, 1949. In the course of that statement, I outlined measures which would be taken in the event of pig prices being artificially reduced.
My information is that, for pigs coming within the best weight grade, the prices being paid by most curers are not unreasonable.
It has got to be realised that the day of the heavy pig is gone. In future, the market will determine the weight at which pigs should be marketed and it would be a great mistake to encourage the production of over-fat animals for which there is practically no demand under normal supply conditions.
Will the Minister take steps to secure from the British a higher price than they are now paying for Irish pigs?
The Minister is always prepared to accept a higher price from anybody from whom he can extract it for anything that he is charged with the responsibility of selling.