asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that, in 1943, special reduced rates for the haulage of sea sand for manurial purposes from Courtmacsherry and Clonakilty to rail stations between Cork City, Skibbereen and Durrus Road Stations were agreed on between the Cork County Committee of Agriculture and Córas Iompair Éireann; that, since the closing down of the Timoleague, Courtmacsherry and Clonakilty branch rail lines these rates have been greatly increased for sand hauled by Córas Iompair Éireann lorries; and if, in view of the great importance of this sea sand as a fertiliser to farmers for food production, he will direct Córas Iompair Éireann to revert to the old rates of charge, as the present rates are so high that the purchase of sea sand by farmers is not economical.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers - Sea Sand Haulage Rates.
I am aware that sea sand for manurial purposes was carried by rail at exceptionally low rates and that the road rates are on a considerably higher level. Córas Iompair Éireann are unable to carry this traffic by road at rail rates which, I understand, would be very much less than the cost of providing the service. They are, however, making special arrangements whereby sand from Courtmacsherry will be conveyed by lorry to Bandon and railed from there to the various areas where the sand is required at rates which will involve a substantial reduction in the road rates otherwise applicable.
Is the Minister aware that the special rates which are now offered are over 200 per cent. higher than the rates fixed in 1943? Is he further aware that the Cork County Committee of Agriculture took Córas Iompair Éireann before the Railway Tribunal in 1943 and as a result of the evidence given and a suggestion by the learned judge who presided these terms were offered by the railway company? The railway company has no justification to alter them at present.
The rail rates will be restored when the services will be restored.
Will the Minister say when that will be?
I wish the Minister could.
Is the railway company justified in charging 250 per cent. of an increase for carrying stuff on roads for the upkeep of which the county councils are paying with the ratepayers' money?