asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he has received representations about the very low price paid by some factories for Grade B pigs; and whether he proposes to take any steps to remedy this situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Prices of Grade B Pigs.
55.
I have received no representations about the prices paid for grade B pigs. I do not agree that they are very low. The position is that since the spring of 1958 prices for Grade B pigs have kept within a fairly close margin of Grade A and B1 prices.
Is the Minister aware that there is a striking and wide discrepancy between the price paid for grade B pigs as between one factory and another? Does he believe that any measures could be taken to secure some degree of uniformity, even if it is not precise, between one factory and another in the price payable for grade B pigs?
I have truthfully said in my reply that I have received no complaints. I admit that the figures I have here are over-all figures. Having looked at this, following the tabling of this Question, I felt satisfied that there was no noticeable discrepancy over a very long period.
Would the Minister be good enough to inform himself at his convenience as to the prices paid for grade B pigs in the several factories so as to see whether or not there is substance in my suggestion to him that there is in fact a wholly unjustifiable fluctuation as between one factory and another in any given week?
So far as I know, most of these factories advertise the prices they intend to pay. While I should be extremely interested to secure the sort of end to which the Deputy refers, I see the difficulties. These prices are announced publicly, in advance, and it is not easy to proceed any further. If I, as a producer, do not like these prices, I am not confined to any particular factory.
You are, if you have only a couple of pigs. What are you to do with them?
I do not admit that. They have ways and means now of dealing with that.
Would the Minister see to it that pigs graded B at the factory are branded grade B so that the housewife will pay the grade B price for that bacon?