asked the Minister for External Affairs if it is intended to implement the resolution on fertilisers submitted to the Committee of Ministers by the Council of Europe; and if he will indicate whether the Government favours the resolution.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Resolution on Fertilisers.
I presume that the Deputy's question relates to Recommendation No. 122 on the increased use of fertilisers which was adopted by the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe on 10th January, 1957.
This recommendation was referred by the Committee of the Ministers of the Council of Europe to the O.E.E.C. for an opinion. The O.E.E.C. has been studying the subject since June last and certain members of the Consultative Assembly of the Council of Europe have participated in some of the discussions that have taken place. So far, however, the O.E.E.C. has not formulated an opinion on the substance of the recommendation. When it has done so, the matter will come, once more, before the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
I do not think it would be proper for me to endeavour to anticipate either the conclusions of the O.E.E.C. or the attitude which the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe will take on the O.E.E.C. report. The Deputy will, however, be aware of the desire of the Government to see fertilisers used to the maximum in the interests of agricultural production and of the Government's sympathy, therefore, with any developments that will tend to reduce the cost of fertilisers.
Does the Minister not think it is about time the O.E.E.C. came to a decision? After all, they have been studying the matter now for over 12 months.
The recommendation was a pretty complicated one. It would take some time to implement, I am afraid.