asked the Minister for Supplies if he will make representations to the Electricity Supply Board to have an increased supply of electric current made available to engineers and blacksmiths engaged in the repair of agricultural machinery, for the next five months, in view of the national importance of their work during the hay and harvest season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity for Repair of Agricultural Machinery.
I assume the Deputy refers to the use of electric current for motive power. I would refer him to the notice issued by the Electricity Supply Board dated 15th March, 1945, from which it will be observed that existing consumers of current for such purposes are exempt from the restrictions at present in force.
Is the Minister aware that last year, during the months of June and July, when agricultural machinery was being repaired, the then users were cut down to 40 per cent. of what they used in 1940, which was the year they started, and which meant 40 per cent. of nothing?
Whatever may have happened last year, I would inform the Deputy that those users are not subject to the restrictions in force now.
Well, if there is sufficient current to repair the machinery, I will be satisfied.