asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state whether any negotiations have taken place between his Department and turkey importers in Great Britain relative to the turkey export trade for the coming season; and, if so, if he will indicate the results and the price producers will receive.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Turkeys.
Mr. Walsh
As the market in Great Britain for our poultry, including turkeys, is free, the question of negotiating a price with turkey importers in that country does not arise. We must sell our turkeys there when Christmas buying begins at the best price the market will pay. It is too soon yet to estimate what that price is likely to be but I hope to make an announcement as to our turkey producers' price at the earliest possible date.
It is now the 23rd October and the turkey market will be commencing as on and from 1st November. Surely the Minister should give some indication to producers as to what the price will be.
Mr. Walsh
I did not announce the price last year until 9th November. I hope to be in a position to do it before that date this year. Might I remind the Deputy that things turned out all right for turkey producers last year?
Is the Minister aware that the sale of turkeys commences around 1st November?