asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware of the hardship caused to fishermen at Cromane, County Kerry, because they have to pay 2/6 a sack for the purification of mussels, and, if so, if he will arrange to have this fee reduced.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cost of Mussel Purification.
I am informed by An Bord Iascaigh Mhara that the fee of 2/6 per sack charged for the purification of mussels at the Cromane plant, which has been in existence since the beginning of the 1951 mussel season, has not produced sufficient income to meet the total cost of operating the plant since then. The question of a reduction of the fee is one which must be decided by the board in the light of all the circumstances, including the need for funds to carry out transplantation of mussels as required in the interests of the fishery.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that, with the levy and transport charges, the costs are excessive and detrimental to the fishermen? The net cost is 4/6 per sack after the cost of transport is taken into account. In view of all the facts, the Department ought to agree to some reduction in this levy.
The Deputy will understand that the question of the reduction of the levy is one that must be decided by the board in the first instance.