asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement on the content and outcome of the discussions which he and other members of the Government had with farming organisations in late December, 1970.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Discussions with Farming Organisations.
2.
The Deputy is evidently referring to the meeting which the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries and I had with the President and other representatives of the National Farmers' Association on the 23rd December last. I would refer him to the statement issued by the Government Information Bureau on my behalf on the evening of the meeting which outlined the outcome. I cannot usefully add anything to that statement at the present time.
Can the Taoiseach say if any further meetings are envisaged between the Government and these organisations?
There has been one meeting at high official level and I expect there will be others.
Will there be a further statement from the Taoiseach? The Taoiseach said he could not add to the statement.
I have nothing to add because talks are continuing at official level. One has already taken place and there will, I expect, be others.
In view of the crisis in the agricultural industry would the Taoiseach consider it important that there should be an immediate meeting between the farming organisations and the Government?
I had a meeting just before Christmas and, as a result of that, there was a meeting held recently; it was the direct outcome of that meeting. Other meetings will be held.