asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the present acute shortage of eggs in the city and suburbs of Dublin, and if he will take such steps as may be necessary to remedy this situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shortage of Eggs.
I am aware that there is a seasonal shortage of eggs at present in Dublin, due to the usual scarcity at this period of lowest production being intensified by the long spell of unfavourable weather. The most effective way to remedy this situation is to secure greater egg production during the winter and steps in that direction have already been taken by my Department, the effects of which would have been more apparent this year were it not for the very unfavourable weather conditions.
Does the Minister think the situation will ease this side of Christmas? Is it that the hens have stopped laying or is the situation due to some shortage at the wholesale end?
It is the hen that is at fault. It is expected in my Department that there will be a sufficient supply by the middle of December so that the period of scarcity will not be as long as last year.
Are there any exports at present?
No.