asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what stocks of curing barrels and salt are held by An Bord Iasgaigh Mhara for the disposal of the winter herring catches in Donegal during the coming winter season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Curing Barrels and Salt Stocks.
I do not consider that it would serve any good purpose to disclose precise particulars of the stocks of curing barrels and salt held by An Bord Iasgaigh Mhara. I am assured, however, by the board that adequate supplies for their estimated requirements during the coming herring curing season are available.
Is there anything secret about it?
No, but there is a very good reason, in the interests of the fishermen themselves.
I am sure the Parliamentary Secretary could tell us.
The reason I am not telling is the reason why I do not want to tell Deputy Dillon now. It is in the interests of the fishermen. I have been advised by the board that it should not be given. The Deputy may rest assured that the supply is adequate.
If that is true, there can be neither head nor tail to the suggestion that it would not be in the interest of the fishermen to tell them how many large barrels there are—unless there is a panic shortage.
You have to look after all the red herrings.
The Government want a big supply of red herrings this year.