asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that as a result of the proposed curtailment of the very efficient service given by a firm in the deliveries of ground limestone, serious unemployment will arise in the Boyle area and much inconvenience will be caused to farmers over a wide area who have availed of the expeditious deliveries given by this company; if he is further aware that no comparable service is being given by any other company engaged in the production of ground limestone and if his attention has been drawn to a statement in the daily newspapers of 25th March dealing with this matter; and, if so, if he will state what steps he proposes to take to ensure that no disruption of service will ensue.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Curtailment of Ground Limestone Service.
I am not satisfied that farmers requiring ground limestone will suffer any inconvenience arising out of the revision of the ground limestone subsidy scheme. Furthermore, I see no reason why unemployment should occur at any of the existing plants as a result of the alteration in the scheme if farmers within 40 miles of each plant would apply the much needed quantities of ground limestone to their land. I would appreciate the assistance of the Deputy, and indeed of all Deputies, in promoting a greater demand for ground limestone. I should point out that the object of the alteration in the scheme is to ensure the delivery of the maximum quantity from the available funds.
Does the Minister wish to convey that the curtailment of the service given will not cause unemployment in the Boyle area?
Mr. Walsh
There will be no reduction in the quantity of lime produced in Boyle as a result of this measure. Actually, the lime can still be delivered from Boyle to counties 40 miles distant. It will cover all Leitrim, Sligo, Longford and parts of Mayo and Cavan.
Is the Minister aware that deliveries from this factory extend over a distance of 60 miles?
Mr. Walsh
I am. I know the reason why. It is in order to get the higher subsidy.
Does the Minister not realise that as a result of the curtailtant ment to 40 miles unemployment will be caused?
Mr. Walsh
I know they have 1,600 square miles to deliver lime in. Multiply that by 640 and you have the acreages.
There is no other firm in the business able to give the same service as the person in Boyle. Further, in cases where lime has been ordered from other firms deliveries take from one week to two weeks, whereas deliveries can be made from Boyle in practically one day.
Mr. Walsh
There is a back log in most quarries at the moment due to the weather.
Not as far as Boyle is concerned.
Mr. Walsh
In every case.
Is it not a fact that the zoning of the limestone scheme will make more money available from lime by deducting from transport?
Mr. Walsh
Yes.
And more unemployment.