asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann, Teóranta, have refused to deliver to farmers in South Tipperary ground limestone unless such farmers are also beet growers; and, if so, whether he will take steps to ensure that the company will make early delivery of such limestone to dairy farmers with a view to increasing the milk production.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ground Limestone Deliveries.
I am informed by Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann, Teóranta, that, owing to the large number of orders for ground limestone received by them, they have been obliged to introduce a priority system of deliveries. In the first category were beet growers who ordered limestone last summer and autumn. All these have now been supplied. Next were farmers requiring limestone for tillage. These have been supplied to a very great extent. The next category is composed of those who want ground limestone for pasture. These orders are now being filled, and the company will be able to concentrate on them from now onwards. Orders in the several categories have been and are being dealt with in rotation according to the date on which the order was placed.
I do not see anything to object to in this nor any reason to ask the company to alter their practice. Ground limestone for tillage crops must be applied before the crops are sown, whereas ground limestone can be applied at any time of the year to pasture.
I understand this lime is subsidised to the tune of £300,000. I would like to know how much goes to Córas Iompair Éireann, how much to the sugar company and how much is left for the Irish farmer?
I am afraid that is too elaborate a question arising out of this one. This one is particularly local.
In giving his priority list I notice that the Minister did not include the spreading of the ground limestone on land reclaimed under the land rehabilitation project. Will the Minister state where deliveries intended for that purpose come in the priority list?
Mr. Walsh
That comes in mostly under pasture and some under tillage. It would go into one or other of the categories.