asked the Minister for Lands whether a market for Dublin bay prawns has been secured in the United States of America, and, if so, if he will give details of this market, the prices arranged and the quantity ordered; further, if he will state what information is available in his Department or to An Bord Iascaigh Mhara on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - American Market for Dublin Bay Prawns.
I am not aware that a market for Dublin bay prawns has been secured in the U.S.A., but I understand that private interests are exploring the possibilities of such a market. All relevant information available to my Department, Córas Tráchtála Teo. and Bord Iascaigh Mhara is at the disposal of interested parties.
Is the Minister aware that, prior to his departure for the United States from Shannon airport, Deputy Briscoe stated that he had a market secured for Dublin bay prawns? Is the Minister now stating in his reply that that is not so, and may I take it therefore that that is another falsehood?
On the contrary, I replied to the Deputy that a number of interests were exploring this market.
Have you got the American market?
A number of persons are exploring the market.
Exploring the market is one thing; getting it is another.
The Deputy is trying to take the place of Hitler.
That is the man you were backing during the war.
On a point of order, Sir, the Minister for Lands has refused to answer Question No. 84. I want to know what is your ruling on that and are we entitled to get an answer?
The Chair cannot force anybody to answer a question in Dáil Éireann.