asked the Minister for Agriculture what measures he proposes to take to increase the number of lime-grinding plants to supply the growing demand for ground limestone under the limestone subsidy scheme financed from the E.C.A. grant counterpart of 5,000,000 dollars allocated for this purpose.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lime-grinding Plants.
Mr. Walsh
As the Deputy is aware the production of ground limestone is a matter for private enterprise. It is expected that, as a result of the recent subsidy, the output of existing plants will be stimulated and additional plants commissioned. The position is being kept under review in my Department.
Where it becomes clear to the Minister that the tendency grows for existing plants to increase their capacity, thus throwing on the Minister an increasing liability for transport subsidy, would the Minister not consider informing the lime grinders that he requires plants in certain stipulated areas for the purpose of reducing the haulage on limestone and that if private enterprise does not supply them within a given period he will take steps himself to install them lest unreasonable demands be made upon him in respect of haulage permanently?
Mr. Walsh
That question is being examined.