asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in considering the application from Córas Iompair Éireann for an increase of 12½ per cent. in freight charges, he will have due regard to the facts that farmers have already contracted with Cómhlucht Siúicre Éireann, Teoranta, to grow beet for delivery to the factories in the 1948-49 season at a certain fixed price, and that when this price was agreed to by the Beet Growers' Association and Cómhlucht Siúicre Éireann, Teoranta, it was assumed that there would not be a further increase in transport costs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Beet Transport Charges.
The Transport Act, 1944, provides that, before the Minister for Industry and Commerce can approve of an application by Córas Iompair Éireann for increases in maximum rail charges, notice of the application must be published in the principal daily newspapers. This notice must specify the procedure for making objections and representations to the Minister.
In dealing with the present application I will take into account all the representations which may be made to me by interested persons including the consideration set out in the question.