(Cavan-Monaghan) asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that large quantities of eggs are being imported from Northern Ireland and sold here at prices that amount to dumping and that it would appear that the producers of these eggs are being subsidised; and if he will take steps to protect our poultry industry against this unfair competition.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Egg Imports.
7.
I am concerned about the current level of imports of eggs from Northern Ireland and my Department are at present examining allegations that Northern Ireland eggs are being sold here at prices below the cost of production. When the results of this examination are available I will consider what course of action should best be pursued. I am mindful of the need at all times to ensure that our industry is not exposed to unfair competition.
(Cavan-Monaghan): I am grateful to the Minister for the reply, but I should like to know if he appreciates that in the mid-seventies we were self-sufficient in regard to eggs? Is the Minister aware that we are now importing about 35 per cent of the eggs consumed here? That represents the eggs of about one million hens. The caring for those hens generate a lot of employment. Is the Minister aware that it would take 44,000 tons of feed for that number of birds and, in terms of employment, that represents a great loss? We are losing a lot of employment by the failure of the Minister to curtail the importation of eggs. If the Minister finds that eggs are being sold in large quantities here below the cost of production, will he deal with the matter? Does the Minister regard that as dumping, and does he intend to exclude this unfair competition?
I met the representatives of the trade, who expresed themselves on similar lines as the Deputy. I am carrying out detailed investigations in order to be able to prepare a case because I take as serious a view of it as does the Deputy.
(Cavan-Monaghan): The Minister probably will know from experience that the British, through health regulations, and the French and Italians by other means, have taken steps to protect their markets from imports of foreign eggs.
I am aware of that. If our investigations show that the Deputy is correct we will certainly take steps.
(Cavan-Monaghan): When will the investigation be concluded? This has been going on for a long time.
I agree. We have been in touch with the Commission and they have been told of it. I would hope for a conclusion in six weeks or two months. The investigations have begun.
Question No. 8 for written reply.