asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that labourers who occupy labourers' cottages and plots are not eligible for the allocation of cheap seed potatoes under the schemes operated by his Department in County Kerry; and, if so, whether he will introduce proposals for amending legislation to remedy the position at the earliest possible date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Cheap Seed Schemes.
I presume the Deputy refers to the seed distribution scheme under the terms of which seed is supplied at reduced rates in certain areas in the congested districts. The object of the scheme is to maintain the quality of the stocks of seeds in these areas and is not in the nature of a relief measure. The scheme is confined strictly to smallholders who earn their living solely or mainly by farming on their own holdings. Labourers who are occupiers of county board of health cottages and plots cannot be regarded as coming within this category. If, however, they are also the rated occupiers of, and are cultivating, small holdings in addition to their cottage plots they are not debarred from participating in the scheme.
I regret it would not be feasible to change the scope of the scheme as suggested by the Deputy.