asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that there are large quantities of potatoes still in the hands of the farmers in the Cooley area, County Louth, whose only market is the local industrial alcohol factory; that the supplies taken by this factory to date are very small and that there is no likelihood of the full crop being disposed of within a reasonable time; and whether he will consider granting export licences and certificates to enable the surplus crop to be sold to countries which are anxious to purchase potatoes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Potatoes in Cooley Area.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I understand that the quantity of potatoes taken so far this season by the alcohol factory is not large and that in the normal course it would be some months before the total surplus potatoes available in the area could be absorbed. In the circumstances arrangements are being made to grant licences for the export of a limited quantity of potatoes from the area.
I am glad that arrangements have been made to export a limited quantity. May I take it that in the event of any other applications being made for a further export in order to enable the farmers to clear off some of the large quantities of potatoes in the area, there will be no delay in issuing licences, such as happened recently?
The Deputy must not take it for granted that the delay is with the Department here. Certain negotiations have to be carried out.
I understand there was an application for licences before Christmas and arrangements made for the export of 2,000 tons, but, owing to the Department not giving the necessary licences or certificates, the contract had to be declared null and void.
There was a very important matter in dispute—the question of price.
Do not let them go black in the pits.