asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that farmers engaged in drainage work are experiencing long delays in obtaining tiles and pipes; and if he will take steps to have this matter rectified.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drainage Tiles and Pipes.
21.
I am aware that there have been some delays in obtaining clayware tiles for land drainage purposes in certain areas. The matter has been the subject of discussions by my Department and the Department of Industry and Commerce with the manufacturers concerned who, I understand, are taking steps to increase output and expect to be in a position shortly to meet the demand.
Is there any truth in the rumour that they are either being exported or smuggled across the Border and that that is the reason they are not available to Irish farmers?
From what I know of it and I know a fair bit—I have been concerned about this right along since the shortage began to emerge—from the economics of it the reverse would be the case, in rather than out.
I am satisfied with the Minister's answer. I do not know enough about it. I was only asked to ask.
That is the economics of it without knowing whether there is any basis for the Deputy's supplementary.
I know.