asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will announce the terms of the new trading agreement with Great Britain as soon as possible, as farmers are holding their stores and fat cattle in the hope of an improvement in price under the new pact, and if he is aware that their supplies of fodder are running low owing to the heavy winter which necessitated extra feeding to keep up the condition of their stock.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trade Agreement With Great Britain.
An announcement in regard to any new trading arrangements with the Government of the United Kingdom will be made in due course and without unnecessary delay.
Would the Minister make what he means by "without unnecessary delay" a little more clear? Would he give some date as to when this new trading agreement recently made will be published? "Without unnecessary delay" might mean anything.
Dr. Ryan
It will be announced as soon as it is made.
Is the Minister aware that the delay in announcing the terms of the new agreement has resulted in a very material fall in the price of cattle, with consequent grave embarrassment to persons who have live stock for sale? Bearing that in mind, will he expedite the publication of the terms of the new agreement, or will he give any forecast of what the farming community may expect to find in the agreement when it is published?
Dr. Ryan
I am not aware that what the Deputy says is true.
I do not want to exchange discourtesies with the Minister, but, assuming that it is true, would the Minister consider giving any kind of forecast to the people, even by telling them that they need not expect any substantial change, or, in the alternative, that they may expect no substantial change in the entire burden, but a difference in the method of allocating it? Any information of that kind would greatly relieve the tension which exists at the moment.
Dr. Ryan
It is always safe not to expect too much.
Is there any agreement yet, or is it merely in process of negotiation?
Dr. Ryan
No.