asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state why County Wicklow has been included amongst the counties in which farmers are required to grow the maximum quota of wheat.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wheat-growing, in Wicklow.
The arable land in County Wicklow compares favourably with that in adjoining counties in which the maximum quota of wheat is required to be grown.
Is the Minister aware that a considerable area of the arable land in Wicklow is situated at a very high altitude and in close proximity to some very high mountains, and that it should be naturally assumed from that that such land would not be suitable for wheat growing? Is he aware that practical experience has proved that land at a high altitude in these areas is not suitable for wheat growing and that very great hardship will be inflicted upon the fanners of these areas? Would the Minister consider some method of appeal against this Order for farmers in these areas whose lands have been proved by experience to be unsuitable for wheat growing?
Can the Minister say how the rainfall compares with that of other counties?
"Grow more wheat" for my neighbour, but never for myself.
I think it would be true to say that a considerable part of the land in Wicklow is situated at these high altitudes, but not a considerable part of the arable land.
What about the rainfall?
I should require, notice of that question.