asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the reduced supplies of milk available for distribution in Dublin, causing hardship and inconvenience to many thousands of families; and if he will explain the causes of the failure to keep up adequate supplies.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Milk Supply in Dublin.
It does not appear that there is any appreciable decline in the quantity of milk available for Dublin from the normal sources of supply, but the supplies available from creameries not registered under the Dublin District Milk Board are rather less than normal, due to the unprecedented long spell of unfavourable weather. The present shortage is estimated at approximately 3,000 gallons per day, representing 6½ per cent. of requirements, and is mainly due to the fact that consumption has substantially increased of recent months. Save in the months of January and February when production is at its lowest, supplies are more than adequate. As much milk as possible is being purchased for the district by the milk board.
Is the Minister aware that last Friday there was a marked scarcity of milk in every part of Dublin, but especially in the Cabra district? People had to come in from the far end of Cabra to the city to look for small quantities of milk and they were refused because they were not attached to the dairies there. Will the Minister see that there will be an adequate supply for our people?
I am assured that every effort will be made in that direction.