asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the conacre system of wheat ranching by speculators has tended to destroy balanced farming, and has glutted mills with badly saved wheat to the detriment of the good farmer; and whether, in view of this tendency to destroy the fertility of our best land, he intends taking steps to safeguard fertility against a national emergency such as war when fertilisers may be cut off.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wheat Production: Effect of Conacre System.
I am aware of this problem, but so far I have been unable to find a satisfactory answer. I will be pleased to consider any suggestions which may be made to me in this regard.
Will the Minister have a chat with his colleague the Minister for Lands with a view to having the necessary lands acquired and distributed in economic units amongst smallholders and congests?
I have a chat with that gentleman regularly.
I am afraid the Minister has not enough influence.