asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that farmers in the Carndonagh, County Donegal, district are compelled to employ railway company lorries in the haulage of potatoes to the nearby alcohol factory and that as a result extra cost, double loading and the use of bags are entailed; and, if so, if he will ensure that tractor owners be allowed to haul their neighbours' potatoes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport of Potatoes in Donegal.
I am informed by the Derry/Lough Swilly Railway Company that for many years past they have provided the greater part of the transport required for this traffic; that they have not received any complaints regarding the service provided; that they have conveyed large quantities of loose potatoes, unbagged, by lorry, and that they can also make tractors available for this traffic if required.
The issue of new merchandise licences is strictly regulated by legislation. As the law stands I would be unable, in the circumstances, to grant new licences for the carriage of potatoes for reward.
Is the Minister aware that out of about 130 vehicles employed in bringing potatoes to the alcohol factory, the Lough Swilly Railway Company have available only four to five vehicles in that district? I can give the names of people who have been refused transport and who must get lorries in order to bring their potatoes to the factory on a particular date; otherwise, they will be shoved back to the end of the queue.
If the Deputy has any particulars of persons who have been refused transport, I shall look into the matter. The company tell me that they have provided all the transport required and that they have received no complaints.
The only complaints are about the prices received for potatoes.