asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that private turf producers and turf societies have large stocks of surplus turf for which no market can be found; and, if so, if he will state what action he proposes to take to provide a market for such turf.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Surplus Turf Stocks.
As was announced at the beginning of the present year, the special marketing section of Bord na Móna has been terminated and it is now a matter for producers to make their own marketing arrangements.
No complaints of inability to market surplus turf have been received from any Midland area.
Is it not a fact that early in the season the Tánaiste and other members of the Government promised the private turf producers that if they cut and saved turf in unlimited supplies they would guarantee a market for it?
Early in this year a statement was issued in all newspapers that there was no guaranteed market for turf and that it was a matter for producers to make their own marketing arrangements.
Does the Tánaiste not consider that it is a very serious situation to have large supplies of privately-produced turf left on hands, without a market, while large supplies of coal are being imported?
No complaint of inability to market turf has beenreceived in my Department since July last.