asked the Minister for External Affairs if he is aware that there exists at present a profitable market for Irish matje herrings in Germany and if any steps are being taken to secure this market for our people.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Herrings in Germany.
The Government have been aware of the possibilities of the German market for Irish cured herrings and have made representations to the German Government in this matter. I regret to say that these representations have not been successful. I can assure the Deputy, however, that no opportunity will be lost in pressing on the German Government our claim for a herrings quota.
Arising out of that answer, was any suggestion made to the German Government that we would be prepared to meet them even on more favourable terms than in years previously, provided that they expressed their willingness to take Irish cured herrings for their market?
I do not think representations were made in these terms, but representations were made when the recent agreement was being negotiated.
Will the Minister try to see, hereafter, that in any arrangements that will be made efforts will be made to secure a place in the German market for our cured herrings?
I would not like to express an opinion as to what further efforts should be made.
Will the President see when arrangements are made on a preferential basis of one to two or one to three that they will contain an agreement in connection with our herring industry?