asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that accommodation provided by the Dublin City Fruit and Vegetable Market is inadequate owing to the increased population of the city since the market was established; and, if so, if he is prepared to consult with the Dublin Corporation regarding the possibility of providing a better marketing system for producers and consumers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin City Markets.
I am informed by the Dublin Corporation that there are no complaints that the accommodation in the market is inadequate for traders or that there is congestion save, possibly, in the late summer and early autumn. I understand that a problem did exist as regards traffic congestion in the immediate vicinity of the markets, but that as a result of new traffic regulations introduced last December the position has eased considerably. I will, however, have the Deputy's representations in the matter conveyed to the corporation.
In view of the fact that it is within the knowledge of anybody who has any acquaintance with the Dublin Fruit and Vegetable Market that there is tremendous congestion within the confines of the market, particularly on the busy mornings of Tuesday and Friday, will the Minister have the matter looked into again since it is one that has given rise to considerable complaint amongst the people in North County Dublin who supply vegetables to the market? Their complaint is that they are delayed for hours, particularly on Tuesday and Friday mornings, by reason of the inadequate size of the fruit and vegetable market.
In my reply I indicated that, according to my information, there was no serious complaint, but, as the Deputy has heard, I have now given an assurance that I will draw the attention of the corporation to the matter again.