asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the many complaints by consumers that the present quality of Irish bacon is not up to pre-war standards; and, if so, whether, in view of the present high prices charged for bacon, he will call the attention of bacon curers to the desirability of taking steps to improve the quality.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Quality of Irish Bacon.
Mr. Walsh
Complaints about the quality of bacon were made to me by the Retail Grocery, Dairy and Allied Trades Association (R.G.D.A.T.A.), The complaints were conveyed to the Bacon Curers' Association and, at my suggestion, were discussed direct between the two associations in the first instance. At the request of the R.G.D.A.T.A., I am now arranging a meeting of both associations with my Department. I should say, however, that the quality of pigs marketed has considerably improved during the past couple of years following the increase in pig supplies and the greater price emphasis on the most suitable type of animal.