asked the Minister for Agriculture if any scheme has been formulated by his Department to enable farmers to produce root seeds in the present year and, if so, whether the proposed scheme has been accepted by the growers' representatives.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Production of Root Seeds.
A scheme for the production of pedigree stocks of root seeds has been formulated. Supplies of these seed pedigree stocks will not, however, be sufficient for production on a commercial scale this season. At the request of Deputies representing County Wexford, I am arranging to see representatives of the growers as soon as the officer of my Department responsible for this division has returned from the United States of America where he is at present on duty on my behalf.
Is the Minister aware that at the present time the farmers are preparing to put in their roots? They have to get the ground ready to sow mangolds. Turnips are already growing. When will the Minister indicate that he has a scheme for next year?
I am arranging to see representatives of the growers as soon as the officer of my Department responsible for this division has returned from the U.S.A. where he is at present on duty on my behalf. His ship is due to berth at Cobh on 3rd March.
Another volte face.