asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to reports in the daily Press that a large cargo of German oats has been landed in Dublin, and that further cargoes are to follow, and if he proposes to take any steps in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Importation of German Oats.
I am aware that the s.s. Smoland, direct from Konigsberg to the North Wall, landed 300 tons of white oats and proceeded to Belfast with part cargo. I have heard that another smaller consignment is en route. I have reliable information that the export bounty on oats from Germany was withdrawn as from yesterday. More than 70 per cent. of our farmers feed all the oats they grow and purchase more oats or equivalents such as Indian meal. So far as these are concerned, the cheaper they can buy the raw materials the better. With regard to the small minority of farmers who sell their oats, it would be better both in their own interests and in the interest of the country as a whole that they adopted the policy of the majority and fed their oats.
I should like to ask the Minister if he thinks he can teach the farmers of Donegal how to run their business? Is he aware that these farmers on whose behalf I speak are exporters of oats, that they are real farmers, and therefore supposed to know how to run their business?
Mr. Hogan
The farmers of the particular district of Donegal for which the Deputy speaks are amongst the best farmers in the country and I have no doubt that they will adapt their economics to what is right.
To suit the Minister's ideas.
Will the Minister watch carefully the trend of events in connection with these German oats? He has told us that the bounty on German oats has been stopped. Will he watch carefully to see that no other method will be taken for the dumping of foreign oats into this country?
Mr. Hogan
I would rather not answer that question.