asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the number of distilleries which have made arrangements to distil this year, and whether in comparison with last year any reduction in the distilling programme is contemplated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Distilling Programme.
I am advised that not less than six distilleries, including three pot-still whiskey distilleries, will engage in distilling this year. On present indications, there should be no signficant change in the volume of production this year as compared with last year.
Might I inquire from the Minister where he got the information that there are six distilleries in operation? Secondly, is he aware that only two distilleries will go into operation this year to distil; that the remainder of the distilleries are mailing for the Scotch brewers and distillers and that one distillery is malting for another concern within the State? In view of that situation, would the Minister not agree that it is essential at this stage to ensure that our export programme will not decrease in six or seven years' time as a result of the lack of distilleries in this coming year?
I would direct the Deputy's attention to the fact that while I referred to distilleries in my answer, I discriminated between distilleries which are pot-still whiskey distilleries and other distilleries which are not pot still. I am afraid I cannot discuss in public the affairs of the other distilleries and what class of business they are now engaged on.
I want a clear specific answer from the Minister now. Is the Minister satisfied that the distilling programme which is being undertaken this year by each of the distilleries within the State is on the same scale as last year? In other words, is the Minister satisfied that distillation will be completed within the State and that it is not merely a question of malting or roasting taking place here for subsequent export out of the State?
My information is compiled on particulars which are furnished by the distilling companies. The information I have given to the Deputy is based on an analysis of these returns which, as I said in the reply, should indicate that there will be no significant change in the volume of production this year as compared with last year.