asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that 1/6 per dozen is being paid for eggs in parts of the country to producers; whether he has satisfied himself that this price is equitable and whether he will make a statement on the prospects of the fowl and egg industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fowl and Egg Industry
Mr. Walsh
I am aware that in the past ten days the prices obtained by producers generally for eggs have fallen from about 2/- to 1/6 per dozen. During the period mentioned, there has been a weakening in the demand for Irish eggs in Britain in consequence of the usual seasonal increase in egg supplies there and I consider that at the moment 1/6 per dozen is on average equivalent to the price obtainable on the export markets. British producers supply the home market to the extent of approximately 85 per cent of its requirements and therefore it may be taken that British home produced supplies are the biggest factor in determining the market price for all eggs in Britain.
I doubt if anyone is in the circumstances of the moment in a position to forecast accurately the prospects of the egg industry.
Am I to take it that in the judgement of the Minister for Agriculture 18d. per dozen is an equitable price for eggs?
Mr. Walsh
The Deputy is not to take any such thing. I have stated that 1/6 per dozen is equivalent to the market price in England at the present time.
Am I to take it from the Minister for Agriculture that in his opinion that price is as high as it is going to be?
Mr. Walsh
No, you are not to take any such thing.
Does the Minister anticipate any improvement in the price of eggs this summer?
Mr. Walsh
I am not going to forecast, and I am not going to assume the authority of Old Moore as the Deputy has done on many occasions.
Would the Minister be good enough to say whether he feels that the elimination of Eggsports, Limited, has contributed in some degree at least to the collapse of egg prices?
Mr. Walsh
Not in the slightest.
I doubt if the people agree.