asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that, owing to the extremely large imports of oats authorised by his predecessor last year, there are now considerable stocks in the merchants' stores; and, if so, if he will take steps to ensure that farmers will receive a remunerative price for any quantity of this year's crop that they may have to market.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Remunerative Price for Oats.
Mr. Walsh
I am aware that in some areas there are considerable stocks of oats in merchants' stores. The extent of the surplus, if any, which will remain unsold at the end of the season depends on whatever steps are taken by the merchants themselves to dispose of their stocks.
The marketing and price of oats have not been officially controlled in recent years and as I have already stated I do not propose to introduce such control in respect of the 1952 crop. I can assure the Deputy, however, that imports of oats will not be permitted if home production is sufficient to meet requirements.
Can we have an assurance from the Minister that, in the event of the market being glutted following the coming harvest, steps will be taken by the Government to ensure that farmers will be able to dispose of whatever surplus they may have?
Mr. Walsh
That matter is having attention.