asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that a serious decline has occurred in egg production because of the low price being obtained by producers, and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Decline in Egg Production.
I am aware that there has been a marked decline in egg production since 1953, and I accept that this has been due to the low prices for eggs in the months of heavy production. The price to producers this spring, so far, however, has been substantially higher than the price last spring. The futnre prosperity of the poultry industry in this country depends, not on what I can do, but on the willingness of poultry-keepers to supply eggs in the autumn and winter months when they are wanted on both home and export markets. The advice and assistance of the poultry officers of my Department and of the county committees of agriculture are available to all farmers to help to achieve this end. Substantial grants have been offered to farmers for several years now towards the cost of the necessary poultry accommodation and equipment to enable them to bring about more efficient poultry management on their farms.