asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture whether he is aware that many farmers are carrying on their business at a loss, that cattle and horses have died for want of feeding where the farmer has no foodstuffs and is unable to procure same; if he will state whether under the Bill to control prices steps will be taken to prevent profiteering in all commodities and thus reduce the cost of living; whether, if failing any such remedial measure, he could see his way to extend the time for payment of land annuities under the Wyndham Land Act and others and thus afford a measure of relief to distressed farmers.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - RELIEF FOR DISTRESSED FARMERS.
I am aware that many farmers are carrying on their business at a loss and need immediate relief. It is hoped to bring proposals, designed to give some immediate relief to agriculture, before the Dáil within the next fortnight.
It would be impossible to deal adequately with the high cost of living by way of question and answer.
The term over which Land Commission annuities are paid cannot be extended. This is obvious, and is admitted by all farmers' organisations who have considered the question.