asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the present price paid to feeders for pigs is much below the cost of production, and if he can take any steps to fix a price that will ensure that the feeder receives at least the cost of production for his bacon pigs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pig Prices.
Dr. Ryan
I am aware that the price paid for pigs in recent weeks is lower than might have been paid, having regard to the price obtained for bacon. Prices are, however, improving, and I am keeping the situation under review with the object of taking action, if necessary, prior to the setting up of the statutory boards under the Pigs and Bacon Act.
Might I ask if the Minister is aware that at the present time the prices paid for pigs down the country are quite uneconomic? In Laoighis pigs have been sold during the last fortnight or three weeks at 33/- a cwt. live weight. Is the Minister in a position to take any action in the matter, or does he hold out any hope of giving relief to the farmers, because if the present prices are continued the farmers will go out of pigs entirely. That is the danger in this matter. There is no question of the farmers being able to produce pigs at the present low uneconomic price.
Is the Minister aware that at the fair in Claremorris a week ago pigs were sold at 25/- per cwt.?
Dr. Ryan
I am not aware of that.
Can the Minister give the House any reason for the collapse in the price of pigs?
Dr. Ryan
That matter was discussed fully here last Thursday, and I cannot repeat now in answer to a question what I said in the course of the debate.
Is the Minister aware that as a matter of fact if there is no improvement in the price of pigs in the next couple of months the feeders will have to get out of pigs?
That is the Minister's fault.
Dr. Ryan
When the board is set up matters will improve.
I agree with the Minister, but I do not see how people can continue to go on selling young pig stock at 8/- to 10/-, and if that price continues how does he think that people will keep on as pig breeders?