asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that there is an acute shortage of absolute alcohol for scientific laboratory and hospital use; and, if so, whether he will arrange for supplies of this commodity to be made available by the industrial alcohol factories.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shortage of Absolute Alcohol.
It is not correct that there is a shortage of absolute alcohol for scientific laboratory and hospital use. The requirements of alcohol for these purposes since November, 1941, have been met by the industrial alcohol factories.
And everybody is aware of the procedure whereby they can get supplies of this commodity. I understand that there is some limit, that you cannot get a lesser quantity than 20 gallons.
Any person who requires alcohol for scientific laboratory or hospital use must obtain a permit from the Revenue Commissioners to get it free of duty. But, subject to the Revenue Commissioners being satisfied as to the purpose for which the material is required, unlimited supplies are available from the industrial alcohol factories at about half the price previously charged.
The correct procedure then is to apply to the Revenue Commissioners for a permit, and to enclose the permit with the order to the industrial alcohol company?
That is right.