asked the Minister for Finance what loan facilities with foreign governments or companies, either of a new character or as an extension of existing arrangements, in relation to (a) imports of grain, (b) tea, (c) electric equipment, (d) C.I.E. equipment and (e) other goods and materials, have been availed of by State-sponsored corporations and companies in the past six months; further, if he will state the amount involved and the arrangements for repayment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Loan Facilities: Foreign Governments and Companies.
No loan facilities have been sought or obtained from any foreign government.
In so far as State-sponsored bodies may arrange financial accommodation from their suppliers or any other commercial source, this is a matter of administration, within the sphere of responsibility of the various bodies, and I cannot undertake to furnish details.
Where State-sponsored bodies borrow under State guarantee, information in regard to such borrowing is supplied annually to the Dáil under the relevant statutory provisions.
Is the Minister prepared to say whether or not he knows that such borrowings are being engaged in by these bodies?
I have no information.
Is the Minister not aware of the fact that the last purchase of Canadian wheat made by Grain Importers Ltd. was bought on foot of a loan guaranteed by the Canadian Government?
I am not so aware.
Would the Minister not inform himself?
Is this a new rumour?
Now you have sold everything, even Killarney.
Is the Minister prepared to deny that Grain Importers had in fact arranged a loan for 80 per cent. of their purchases of wheat this year in Canada?
That is not in the question. I would advise the Deputy and Deputy MacEntee not to believe every rumour they hear around.
That is no rumour.