asked the Minister for Supplies if, in view of the very acute shortage of paraffin oil in the seaboard area west of Bantry, he will consider the possibility of increasing the ration to the poor people in that and similarly situated remote areas where no alternative source of lighting is available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Paraffin Ration.
As the supply of kerosene is not sufficient to meet normal requirements its use for domestic and household purposes must continue to be restricted in order to ensure as far as possible that supplies are available to meet the urgent requirements of the owners of agricultural tractors and other agricultural machinery. In present circumstances, therefore, it is not possible to arrange for extra supplies for householders in any particular area.
Is the Minister aware that the deficiency has been much worse in that particular area than it has been anywhere else?
I do not think so.
I am informed that it has been, and that that hardship might be alleviated by a little more consideration in distribution.
I will look into that.