asked the Minister for Agriculture if it is a fact that a scheme to rationalise the pig and bacon industry is to be introduced by his Department early in the coming year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pig and Bacon Industry.
25.
While I understand that the Pigs and Bacon Commission have been giving their attention to some possible organisational improvements in the industry, no proposals have been submitted to me.
Would the Minister tell us if it is the intention of the Pigs and Bacon Commission to introduce a contract system and to rationalise the bacon trade? That was the word I heard used by an official. Will the Minister bring such a matter before this House or can that be done by the Pigs and Bacon Commission without any regard to either this House or the Minister?
The Deputy can be assured that any changes, violent or otherwise, will first be brought before me.
Will the Minister assure us that, if such matters are brought before him, he, in turn, will make this House aware of any such changes in this very important industry?
It was only natural that the Commission, as a result of the report of the survey team and the rejection of some of its vital recommendations by the study group, would proceed to examine into the many questions affecting the industry. The fact that they carry out this examination and the fact that they have consultations with the curers and the farming organisations does not mean that they have made up their minds to effect any changes. There is nothing wrong in examination and consultation. Indeed, it would be a neglect of duty on their part if they did not examine problems in the industry in the hope of finding a solution. They have not submitted any proposals to me and I do not think they have any fixed mind on any of these matters. They are merely investigating and, before they can do anything about the outcome of such investigation, they will have to consult me and my Department. I believe I can be trusted to take the necessary steps to ensure that a sensible decision is reached.
Will the Minister consult the House then?
Sure, I am always consulting you.
No. Surely the Minister is aware of the fact that colleagues of his have taken very drastic steps, which have upset whole industries, without any regard to this House.
That is a matter that does not relevantly arise on this question.
I am not making any case against the Pigs and Bacon Commission making inquiries, but I ask the Minister will he ensure that that body will not take any steps without the public being made aware of them?
As far as I know, they have made no decision as to what steps, if any, they will take. I do not know what their legal powers may be in regard to any scheme they might be discussing or contemplating. If they were thinking in terms of some action not provided for by law, then, of course, I would have to consult the House, if I approved of what they were proposing to do. The law is there. I do not know exactly what powers it gives them. It all depends, of course, on what they propose to do. Anyhow, I think it can safely be left as it is because the work is merely exploratory.They may decide to make no proposals at all. If they decide to make proposals, these will have to be submitted to me. I am sure the House will see to it that Deputies and the public will know all about it, apart altogether from any obligation on me as Minister to keep the House and country informed.