asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that a number of farmers who ordered tractors last September, and, in anticipation of delivery of the tractors before Christmas, sold their farm horses to help to pay for them, have not yet got delivery, so that they are now without either horses or tractors for the spring sowing; and if he will, in view of the urgency of this matter, take steps to ensure immediate delivery of the tractors.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Delivery of Tractors.
No cases of the nature indicated by the Deputy have been brought to my notice. I am aware, however, that there is difficulty and delay in obtaining this country's full requirements of tractors. Every possible action has been taken with a view to securing speedier delivery. As the distribution of tractors within this country is not subject to official control, I cannot assist any particular individual to obtain his requirements out of the supplies becoming available, and inquiries in this direction should be pursued through normal trade channels.
Is the Minister aware that some kind of vehicle which was used to draw artillery during the war is readily convertible into a tractor for agricultural purposes, but has been refused permission to enter duty free as an agricultural tractor because the Revenue Commissioners have determined that it comes within the description of a vehicle? Would the Minister look into that, with a view to directing the Revenue Commissioners to review that decision, in the light of the acute shortage of tractors that prevails, where they are satisfied that the farmer really means to use such a vehicle as a tractor?
I refer the Deputy to the reply given to a Parliamentary question on that matter some days ago.
Can the Minister do nothing to speed up the delivery of these tractors? Are the people who are let down through the non-delivery liable to be prosecuted for not tilling?
Every possible action is being taken to speed up the delivery of tractors.
Then you are not masters of your jobs.
We cannot control the situation—that is true.