asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that fish valued at £387,513 were imported into this country in the year 1950 while Donegal-cured herrings remained unsold; and, if so, if he will take immediate steps to prevent the importation of cured and salted fish other than by licence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fish Imports.
I am aware that fish was imported in 1950 as stated by the Deputy. The value of the cured and salted fish included in such imports amounted to less than 10 per cent. of the figure mentioned. I understand that the herrings cured in Donegal in the past two seasons have been sold. The question of restricting imports of cured fish can only be considered in the manner provided for in the Trade Agreements made with other Governments, and the steps suggested by the Deputy cannot, accordingly, be taken.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the figures I have quoted are official figures issued by the Statistics Branch of the Department? The total imports amounted to £387,513. I can give him in detail how that particular figure is made up.
I have the details myself.
How does the Parliamentary Secretary account for the fact that he says that only ten per cent. of the figure I mentioned was imported?
Only ten per cent. of the figure for preserved fish represents—to take the Deputy's own description—cured and salted fish, to the extent of £31,000.