asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to an advertisement in a newspaper for December 6th, issued by William Russell and Sons, Ramelton, which stated that the firm in question had been authorised by Mr. James Dillon, B.L. (Minister for Agriculture), to purchase on behalf of his Department unlimited quantities of oats, while other appointed buyers in the constituency of East Donegal advertised that they had been appointed to buy on behalf of Grain Importers (Éire), Limited; whether, in fact, the advertisement was issued under his authority or that of Grain Importers (Éire), Limited; and, if so, if he will explain the reasons for this departure from precedent in the use of the Minister's personal name in this advertisement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchase of Oats—Newspaper Advertisement.
I have seen the advertisement referred to by the Deputy. The firm of William Russell & Sons, Ramelton, were not authorised to use my name in this or any advertisement.