asked the Minister for Agriculture is he aware that merchants are promised only 75 per cent. of the artificial manures which they got last year, and that owing to the increase in tillage this amount will be unable to fulfil present requirements; and if he will state what action he proposes to take to supply the deficiency.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supply of Fertilisers.
I am aware that the manufacturers of artificial manures have distributed to merchants already this season 75 per cent. of the total amount of phosphatic manures distributed in the whole of last season. Additional quantities will be distributed before the end of the season and some imported superphosphate has also been obtained. Satisfactory supplies of potassic manures and sulphate of ammonia are available, and to fulfil present requirements for tillage, farmers have been advised to use heavier dressings of these latter manures with lighter dressings of superphosphate. Basic slag has recently become available in greater quantity than previously anticipated, and as this manure may be used in substitution for superphosphates for all root crops, farmers have been advised accordingly. I am satisfied that all practicable measures are being taken to provide adequate supplies of artificial manures.