asked the Minister for Finance if he will state whether any action of the Government is responsible for the fact that manufacturers and suppliers in the wholesale trades have been unable to supply the retail trade with sufficient tobacco and cigarettes of the popular brands, and whether, in view of the increasing number of visitors to Ireland this year, he will ensure that retailers are adequately supplied.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Tobacco and Cigarette Supplies.
Mr. A. Byrne
Any action taken by the Government in this regard has been directed towards increasing the amount of unmanufactured tobacco permitted to be released from bond. This amount has recently been raised by a further 5 per cent., bringing the supplies available to manufacturers to 36.5 per cent. over the quantity available at the outbreak of war. On the best information to hand, the overall amount of leaf available for manufacture is sufficient to meet the needs of the community but inadequacy of manufacturing facilities or difficulties of distribution may be responsible for temporary or local shortage. It is not anticipated that visitors will experience any serious difficulty in obtaining reasonable supplies.
Mr. A. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that at present, even before the tourist trade begins, there is a scarcity in the smaller shops in the City of Dublin of tobacco and cigarettes? Could the Minister find out if anybody is unduly withholding supplies and whether an inquiry will disclose the fact that there are people here in Dublin who cannot get any increase whatever in their cigarette supplies?
Certainly, I will make an inquiry. I want as much tobacco smoked as possible.
Mr. A. Byrne
Will the Minister press that point?
Certainly.
They are smuggling them over the Border.
There is very little of it.