asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that most of the ryegrass seed crop had been marketed at depressed prices before the Order prohibiting the importation of grass seed except under licence was made, and before the agreed price of 40/- per cwt., which came into force on the 23rd September, 1952, was fixed; and, if so, if he will take steps to see that this fact is reflected in the prices charged to farmers for ryegrass seed next season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ryegrass Seed.
Mr. Walsh
I am aware of the prices at which ryegrass seed in the rough state was sold prior to the date mentioned. The request made by the Deputy has been anticipated since, arising out of discussions with them, the Ryegrass Machine Cleaners' Association have undertaken that the prices at which they will sell cleaned seed this season should permit of its being sold to farmers at prices substantially lower than those of last season.