asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been directed to the extensive failure of the potato crop in the West and Midlands, and whether he will cause inquiries to be made into the reason for this failure and take such steps as may be necessary to prevent its recurrence next year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Potato Crop in West and Midlands.
I am aware that, primarily as a consequence of unfavourable weather conditions, the potato crop has been retarded in growth and in some districts "misses" have been observed, particularly in the case of late sown crops.
Reports, however, indicate that, with the exception of isolated instances, the position generally is not one that need give rise to concern and, should weather conditions take a more favourable turn, an average crop may be anticipated. "Misses" in the potato crop could have been obviated by the planting whole of suitable sprouted "seed".
Is the Minister aware, from his experience, that seed guaranteed by the Government inspector was planted and did not grow; and is the Minister satisfied in his own mind that we are not confronted with any untoward epidemic of virus disease? I raise that question lest it may be necessary to take steps to see that virus disease is not carried over into next year's harvest.
Any failure there has been is due to the unfavourable weather conditions and not to virus disease.
Will the Minister keep the matter under review?
Yes.