asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what measures he proposes to take to make available adequate quantities of ground North African phosphate for application to grasslands in the autumn and winter of this year, and what measures are in hand to ensure adequate supplies of superphosphate for spring tillage in 1952.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ground North African Phosphate.
Mr. Walsh
My policy in the matter is to ensure that the maximum quantities of the various types of fertilisers are made available at the lowest possible prices. To this end, I am at present engaged in conversations with the various manufacturing and importing interests concerned.
Is the Minister making arrangements to import superphosphates himself? The Minister will recollect that we imported 89,000 tons super last year, of which 48,000 tons are in his possession at the present time. Does he intend to bring in further supplies this year so as to ensure that the domestic ring will not exploit the consumer?
Mr. Walsh
The Minister is aware that the Deputy made no provision whatsoever to have manures in this country in the autumn and winter and in the spring of next year, but I am taking the precaution now of having fertilisers here for next autumn, winter and spring.
Is the Minister aware that he himself has in store at this moment 48,000 tons of superphosphates?
Mr. Walsh
Quite so.
And that I put it there for him.
Mr. Walsh
Who? You?
Is the Minister aware of that?