asked the Minister for Transport and Power what steps are being taken to meet the problems created by a reduction in the supply of oil and petrol; the quantity of such products imported in June, 1966 and June, 1967; whether rationing or price increases are contemplated; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Oil and Petrol Supplies.
5.
I issued a public statement in this matter on 7th June, 1967 as follows:—
Reserve stocks of oil are maintained in this country to carry us over an interruption of supplies of some months duration. If a shortage of supplies should develop, this country could expect a proportionate allocation of available supplies. It is only if a severe and prolonged interruption of supplies becomes apparent that rationing control would be necessary.
That statement still holds good.
A total of 223,880 tons of crude oil and refined petroleum products was imported in June, 1966. Complete import figures for the month of June, 1967 are not yet available but supplies to us were at normal level in that month.
I am keeping the situation under very close review and I will issue a further statement if and when the need arises.
Any question of increases in the price of petroleum oils is a matter for the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
Can the Minister confirm whether supplies to Whitegate come in the main from Kuwait? Is this the explanation for the recent speech of the Minister for External Affairs? Is it an effort to placate the Sheik so as to ensure supplies of oil from that quarter?
The Deputy is making a very foolish statement which can give absolutely no aid to the situation. The answer is that I am not aware of where the oil supplies come from. They come from numerous sources. They are arranged through the oil companies in conjunction with their head offices. The fewer allegations and suggestions made in regard to the particular origin of oils, the better. The position is satisfactory at the moment.
Is the Minister aware the Sheik informed a member of the Irish Parliamentary Delegation in Teheran last year that he was the principal supplier of oil to Whitegate?
He also said he liked Irish butter but we could not afford to sell it to him.