asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that there has not been a supply of candles or paraffin for domestic purposes in Swords or district for the past two weeks, and that the people in this district who have not a supply of electric current are without light of any kind; and, if he will have the matter investigated with a view to preventing a recurrence, and also if he is aware that a similar state of affairs existed in Garristown a couple of weeks ago.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Candle and Paraffin Supplies in Swords.
There is no detailed official control over the distribution of candles but it was found necessary, owing to the critical supply position early this year, to suspend deliveries by the manufacturers in order to conserve stocks for the winter period. The distribution of candles for domestic purposes was resumed last month and, as supplies of raw materials showed some improvement recently, it was found possible to arrange for the distribution of candles from the 1st November at the rate of about 75 per cent. of normal deliveries.
While I cannot undertake to examine complaints from private persons claiming that they cannot obtain supplies, I am prepared to investigate any case in which a shopkeeper can show that he is not receiving his due share of the available supplies.
A temporary shortage of supplies of paraffin oil for domestic use in Swords and Garristown areas occurred recently owing to the depletion of stocks in the depôt serving the areas following heavy demands made on the limited transport facilities of the oil distributing companies by agricultural users of kerosene who must necessarily be accorded priority. The outstanding quotas of paraffin oil in these areas have now been delivered.
Are we to understand what there is now an unofficial 75 per cent. ration of candles from manufacturers to retailers?
Yes.