asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state the names, addresses and occupations of the members of the Potato Marketing Board, whether the farmers have any representation on this board and the amount of salary payable to members for services rendered.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Potato Marketing Company.
Mr. Walsh
The following persons are directors of the Irish Potato Marketing Company: Messrs. Philip Bannigan, Lifford; Richard Barrett, Ballina; Charles Gold, Lower Kimmage Road, Dublin; Edward McGivern, New Docks, Galway; Robert Patton, Monaghan; Michael Sheehan, Ardfoyle Avenue, Cork; J. J. Stafford, Cromwell's Fort, Wexford; all of whom are potato exporters. Mr. Michael Clarke, farmer, Foxborough, Killala; Mr. Michael J. Gallagher, principal officer, Department of Agriculture.
The directors receive no remuneration for their services.
Is the Minister aware that quite a number of farmers, particularly in North Mayo, are wholly dissatisfied with the representation they have got on this potato marketing board?
Why not have a co-operative marketing board?
A Deputy
Who appointed the board?
Mr. Walsh
My predecessor, I take it.
The Minister has not replied to my question. I asked if he is aware that quite a number of farmers, particularly in North Mayo, are wholly dissatisfied with the representation the farming community have got on that board?
Mr. Walsh
Did you make any representation to my predecessor when the board was being formed?
With all due respect, that is not answering my question.
I cannot force any Minister to reply.