asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that for a considerable time past upwards of 2,400 sheep have been satisfactorily grazed on an area of 400 acres of improved bogland at the Min Fhéir Teoranta factory at Muingmore, Geesala, County Mayo, where no grazing was formerly possible; and if he will take steps to have the extraordinarily successful grass production methods used there made known to farmers who own similar types of land.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bogland Grazing.
8.
The growing of grass for the production of grass meal should not, I consider, be taken as a criterion for grass production for normal agricultural purposes such as grazing of sheep. While I have no function in regard to the operations of Min Fhéir Teoranta, I understand that since about March last a certain amount of grazing of the kind mentioned has taken place. Research into the feasibility and economic value of different methods of peat land reclamation for agricultural purposes is in progress by An Foras Talúntais at Glenamoy.
In view of the fact that on 22nd April last, the Leader of the Opposition, Deputy Dillon, stated in this House that the grassmeal concern at Muingmore was established there purely to spite Deputy Lindsay, making it clear in his speech at the same time that, if he ever became Leader of the Government, he would close it down, will the Minister be good enough now to give the House an assurance that the project will be maintained in operation?
As far as statements on both sides of this House are concerned on matters of this kind, I do not think such an assurance is called for. There is always in a case like this an element of doubt in the minds of some as to the wisdom of such an establishment, but there are quite a few people who have great confidence in this and who feel it will prove successful. It has not started production yet.
In view of the fact that Deputy Dillon established the reputation of closing down everything in North Mayo, can we get some assurance now that there will be no danger of people being unemployed?
It will not close in my time.
I did not close down the Deputy, but the general election will close him down effectively.