asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the price of pigs at present is at an uneconomic level for farmers; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pig Prices.
With the prospect of lower feeding costs, I consider that pig production will be maintained on a profitable basis. Under the Pigs and Bacon Agreement of 1951 with Britain, the price paid by the Ministry of Food for our exports will continue to be linked for at least two years with the price guaranteed to the British farmer. Arrangements were made under that agreement last month whereby our exports to the Ministry of Food will in future take the form of bacon, as the bulk purchase of fresh meat is ceasing in Britain. These arrangements preserve the fundamental price relationship established by the 1951 agreement and there will be no limit to the quantity of bacon that may be sold to the Minister of Food. There is, therefore, an assured market for our entire exportable surplus.
In addition, the British authorities have now agreed that, after decontrol, pork carcases may be sent to Britain on a trader to trader basis without restriction as to the weight of the carcase. The position with respect to the weight of such pork carcases may be reviewed from time to time.