asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the manufacturers of artificial manures have announced in the public Press that the cost of fertilisers is being increased by 12½ per cent., and, if so, whether, in view of the consequent increased production costs, he will reconsider the price fixed for wheat and feeding barley in the coming season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fertiliser Costs: Wheat and Barley Prices.
asked the Minister for Agriculture whether, in view of the statement recently made by importers and distributors of fertilisers that the Minister for Industry and Commerce was prepared to sanction an increase in prices, he will make a statement in regard to the effect such an increase will have on farmers' production costs.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to reply to Questions Nos. 7 and 8 together.
I am not aware that the fertiliser manufacturers announced that the cost of fertilisers would be increased by 12½ per cent., but I understand that an application to increase the price of certain fertilisers by less than 3 per cent. has been approved by the Minister for Industry and Commerce. I do not propose to make any change in the prices already announced for wheat of the 1955 crop. A price has not been fixed for feeding barley of the 1955 crop, but growers are assured that the price will not fall below 40/- a barrel delivered for barley in good sound condition and suitable for grinding into feed.
Does the Minister expect to get feeding barley at 40/- this year?
I hope the farmers will get the maximum price which the world prices will permit, but I propose to ensure that in no circumstances can they be required to accept less than 40/- a barrel.
And the Minister is, therefore, prepared to leave this country in the same position after next harvest as he alleged he was left in after this harvest—that he had to go abroad and pay whatever prices were demanded? Is that the attitude of the Minister now?
Where is the question the Deputy is asking?
What means or method does the Minister propose to adopt to ensure that even this price of 40/- a barrel will be paid?
A variety of methods, all of which will be severally and jointly effective.
Are we to take it that the means that the Minister may put into operation, or the methods, would be more successful than the methods he adopted in 1948 and 1949 when he guaranteed 2/- per stone for oats which never came off?
I shall certainly take precautions to make my methods proof against the mischievous activities of the Deputy.