asked the Minister for Agriculture whether there has been any improvement in the supply of bacon since the suspension of the functions of the Pigs and Bacon Marketing Boards.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bacon Supplies.
There has been an increase in recent weeks in the numbers of pigs received at bacon factories for curing. The increase began before any change was made in the functions of the Pigs and Bacon Commission and is a normal feature of the bacon trade in the autumn and early winter of each year. It has resulted in a small temporary improvement in bacon supplies, but no general improvement can be expected pending an increase in pig production, which depends on an improvement in the position with regard to the supply of feeding stuffs.
Is the Minister aware that there has been a very substantial improvement since the Pigs and Bacon Marketing Board went up the spout?
I am not aware of a "substantial" improvement.
I am telling the Minister now.
Thanks.