asked the Minister for Supplies if he will indicate what supplies of superphosphate and phosphatic compounds are likely to be available, and what are the prospects of increasing the supply available over last year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Superphosphates and Phosphatic Compounds.
I am not in a position to indicate at this stage what quantities of superphosphate and phosphatic compound are likely to be available in 1944.
Will any effort be made to secure supplies from North Africa?
I do not think that there is much likelihood that we will be able to get supplies from North Africa in the immediate future.
Will the Minister give information as early as possible if any supplies are available and what quantity will be available?
Definite information cannot be available until the time has concluded. The quantity of phosphate rock which we import depends entirely upon circumstances which cannot be accurately forecast. The maximum quantity which can be imported will be brought in, but what that quantity will be nobody can say at this moment.
Does the Minister appreciate the necessity for giving early information to the agricultural community?
I cannot give information any earlier than I get it myself.
Does the Minister appreciate that the agricultural community should have early information, and will he try to give the earliest possible information?
Certainly. The Deputy will appreciate that the circumstances are uncertain all the time.
I am merely bringing to the Minister's notice the necessity for having early information. I fully appreciate the Minister's difficulties.