asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that since the change over from rail to lorry traffic, freight charges on cattle from Castlegregory and Annascaul to Tralee have been increased by Córas Iompair Éireann by 200 per cent.; and, if so, whether he will make representations to Córas Iompair Éireann to have a more reasonable charge fixed for the transport of cattle from those districts.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increase of Freight Charges.
I have made inquiries from Córas Iompair Éireann in this matter. The company have informed me that the road rate for live stock between Annascaul and Tralee, and between Castlegregory and Tralee is 46/9 per lorry. The present rate by rail for equivalent distances would be 37/5 and 30/5, respectively, per wagon. The excess of the road freight is much less than the figure suggested by the Deputy.
The company inform me that the rates charged are those prevailing throughout the country and that they would be unable to reduce them.