andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has read the report of a statement made by the Chairman of Batchelors Limited that they, in common with other Irish companies, felt compelled to protest to the Government on the entry of the Irish Sugar Company into the competitive home market in canned fruit; if so, whether it is a fact that such representations were made; what limitations were imposed on the Irish Sugar Company's trading activities because of such representations; and if he will give the names of the other companies to which the Chairman referred in his address to his shareholders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Home Marketing of Canned Fruit.
35.
I have read the report mentioned in the Question. As regards the arrangements made with the Irish Sugar Company for sales of processed foods on the home market, I would refer the Deputies to my reply to their question of 9th May, 1961. These arrangements were made before the representations referred to were received. No limitations were imposed on the Irish Sugar Company's trading activities as a result of these representations. It would be inappropriate for me to identify individual firms who make representations to me.
Are we to take it that the Irish Sugar Company are at liberty to produce whatever processed food they make at the new factory for home consumption?
The decision of the Government in November, 1960, was that the home sale of processed foods by the Irish Sugar Company taking one year with another should be limited to ten per cent. of the total production.
In reply to a previous question, the Minister said there was no question of home distribution of these products, because the factory was not in commercial production. Is it possible now that the situation is altering rapidly and that they will be allowed to sell their products on the home market?
The main purpose of the process now undertaken by the Sugar Company was to sell their products on the export market. As I understand it, the Sugar Company are very well satisfied with the arrangement come to by the Government with them.
Is it not a fact——
The Deputy debates everything instead of asking a question.
These things must be said; we must know what is going on.
Question No. 36. The Chair will have to exercise the power vested in it, if the Deputy does not conduct himself.
These people are backing big business against the ordinary consumer.