andHughes asked the Minister for Agriculture what is the position with regard to the market for the coming season's crop of feeding barley.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Feeding Barley Market.
I have had discussions regarding a market for home-grown feeding barley of the 1955 crop with various organisations representative of farmers, including the National Farmers' Association, Macra na Feirme, the Beet Growers' Association and others.
I also had consultations with representatives of the principal buyers of feeding barley, who have assured me that they will purchase all the feeding barley on offer at a price of not less than 40/- per barrel delivered for grain in good sound condition and suitable for grinding into feed.
I am arranging to restrict sales of imported grain to such extent as may be necessary to provide an outlet for such quantity of home-grown feeding barley as may come on the market.
While I am satisfied that a market will be available for all feeding barley offered, I would point out that it is in the growers' interest not to "rush" deliveries but to market the crop in an orderly way so as to facilitate handling and storage of all grain to be marketed this season.
I still believe, however, that growers in a position to do so can get the best returns for their barley by feeding it to live stock on their own farms.
I would like to add to that answer that, owing to the proximity of the recess, I have not had the customary long notice for it. If there is any aspect of that question I have not covered, I would be grateful to the Deputy if he would ask a supplementary question on it.