asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the price of mountain wool has fallen considerably with consequent serious loss to the small farmers of North Mayo and if he will state what steps he proposes to take to remedy this situation.
Questions— Written Answers. - Price of Mountain Wool.
Mr. Walsh
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, wool is sold under free market conditions and there is no export or price restriction. For some months late in 1950 and early in 1951 world prices for wool went to record high levels, mainly I understand because of special American stockpiling. Subsequently there was a decline in prices, which however remained well above the 1949 levels. There has recently been some recovery in prices but it is of course impossible for me to predict or influence future price trends.