asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that bank credit is greatly restricted in the case of needy farmers and whether it is his intention to devise some scheme which will assist these farmers to obtain this much needed accommodation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Credit for Farmers.
I am not satisfied that creditworthy farmers are unable to get credit for productive purposes.
May I remind the Deputy of the extensive credit facilities available to farmers from my Department, the Agricultural Credit Corporation and the county councils (under the Seeds and Fertilisers Supply Act, 1942)? If the Deputy is in any doubt as to the nature and extent of these facilities, I will be happy to have full particulars supplied to him.
Is the Minister aware that 4½ per cent. is an excessive rate of interest to charge on loans to farmers?
In a certain sense any rate of interest may be regarded as excessive.