asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the considerations which caused him to delay asking the Pigs and Bacon Commission to set up a price stabilisation fund for the pig industry.
Ceiseanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pig Industry.
15.
I informed the Deputy in connection with a previous question on 24th July, 1973, that I had already spoken to the Pigs and Bacon Commission in favour of such a fund. I again referred to the matter on the occasion of a pig industry function on 14th May.
In view of the fact that two years ago in reply to a parliamentary question the Minister conceded that such a scheme was desirable, would he not think that this fund should have been introduced long ago? It probably would have saved the pig industry.
I feel that way but the producers and the curers obviously do not feel that way about it. I do not want to impose it on them.
Will the Minister concede that in 1973 the producers felt it should be introduced?
I cannot go back to 1973 and be certain that what the Deputy says is correct.
I think the Minister will agree that most producers and most pig fattening units were anxious for this type of fund. I know it cannot be forced on anybody but the Minister should bring to bear all the pressure he can to have this type of fund created because of the danger of another crisis in the pig industry like the one which nearly wiped out the industry.
I can only tell the producers that it is my view that this would be an advantage to the industry. I have stated my view on a number of occasions but obviously there is serious opposition to this.
Would the Minister now ask the Commission for a quick report on this matter?
The Commission are in favour also.