asked the Minister for Agriculture if in view of the importance of the linen industry his Department is taking any steps to revive and encourage flax cultivation in the Free State; and, if so, if he will take early and immediate action to secure a sufficient quantity of pure line brands of flax seed to meet the requirements of prospective growers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flax Cultivation.
Dr. Ryan
The introduction of legislation having for its object the encouragement of flax growing in Saorstát Eireann is under consideration. Steps have already been taken to put Saorstát merchants, who have been engaged in the sale of flax seed, in touch with sources of supply of pure line seed.
Can the Minister say how soon we may hope to have legislation introduced dealing with the encouragement of flax growing? Will it be before the next flax growing season?
Dr. Ryan
I expect the Bill will be ready immediately on the resumption after Christmas.