asked the Minister for Supplies if, in view of the difficulties experienced by purchasers who buy in very small quantities because of their inadequate means and because of continual unemployment, he will, in order to protect their interests and to safeguard their supplies of food appoint a food controller.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Food Supplies.
Mr. Byrne
It is not proposed to appoint a food controller. Under the powers conferred on me every step possible is being taken to safeguard the supplies and distribution of foodstuffs for all sections of the community and to control the prices of such commodities.
Mr. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that people anxious to purchase small quantities of goods, to the amount, perhaps, of 2d. or 3d., cannot get any supplies? The Minister is already familiar with the position in regard to tea, margarine, butter and paraffin oil, articles which are unpurchasable by these unfortunate people. Paraffin oil is an essential commodity in many homes where the people have not electric light or gas. I suggest that these are matters which require the very careful attention of the Minister. That is what prompted me to put the question down. I have received numbers of complaints.
I am not going to dispute the importance of the matter, but I do not think any improvement of the position would result from the appointment of a food controller.
Can the Minister indicate, for the benefit of persons who are unable to secure supplies of paraffin for the illumination of their homes, what the prospect is of their getting supplies, or if there is any remedy available where supplies are not forthcoming?
That appears to me to be a separate question.
Perhaps the Minister will give the Chair another lecture on that?