asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what the supply position is likely to be for the coming season regarding phosphatic, nitrogenous, potassic and compound manures.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Manure Supply Position.
As far as can be foreseen at present, the quantity of superphosphate available for the coming season will be approximately the same as last season. There will also be basic slag, and, in addition, semsol and ground North African phosphate will be available in limited quantities.
Sulphate of ammonia will not be available for straight sale. Nitrate of ammonia 15½ per cent. will be again available, and very probably some nitrate of soda. There may be some muriate of potash available for general use.
It is impossible to indicate the total quantity of compound manures that may be manufactured, and generally at this stage it is not feasible to give any hard and fast figures in respect of the production of any class of fertilisers.
Can the Minister say if there will be any variation in the grade of phosphates and can he give us some information regarding prices?
This year, so far as superphosphates are concerned, there will be 60,000 tons of 30 per cent. and 15,000 tons of 35 per cent. The quantity is the same, but I think it is a little higher grade this year.
Is there any hope of kainit?
No, but there might be some muriate of potash.
Is it the Minister's intention to use the potash and nitrogen for the manufacture of composite manures like fertilisers?
Yes.
I suggest that it would be better to make as much composite manure as may be, so that everybody will get some share of the potash and nitrogen, rather than to sell the muriate of potash and nitrogen if it is in short supply in its purity.
Always provided that the manufacturer does not charge too much for making the compound manure.
The sulphate of ammonia and muriate of potash will be used in compounds, but it is hoped to have nitrate of ammonia and nitrate of soda apart from the compounds.
In what form will the potash be imported?
Muriate of potash, I think.