asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the number of occasions on which the committee set up to consider the economic and social consequences of creamery rationalisation met; their membership; the proposals considered by them to date; and if he is satisfied that they are effective in advising him.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Creamery Rationalisation.
51.
The group referred to were set up in April, 1970, for the purpose of advising the Minister, from the economic and social aspects, on specific proposals for creamery re-organisation.
The members are:
Mr. J.J. Walsh (Chairman of the Fair Trade Commission), Chairman of the Group; Dr. E.A. Attwood, Head of Economic Unit, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries; Mr. John Moher, Curraghmore, Mitchelstown, County Cork; Mr. Donal Nevin, Assistant General Secretary, Irish Congress of Trade Unions, and Professor T. O'Mullane, Dean of Dairy Science Faculty, University College, Cork.
So far I have referred one case to the group, which I understand met on three occasions in their deliberations thereon. I am satisfied with and accept the group's advice on the case.
Can the Minister explain how this group could have met on three occasions and still only have incurred the expenses which were given in tabular form to Deputy O'Connell last week in the Dáil—only £33? Is the Minister satisfied that this group are pursuing their activities with sufficient vigour?
Yes, I am. I do not know the reason why their expenses were so small but I do not think that is grounds for complaint against them.
It is evidence of lack of activity.
I would not accept that.