Vol. 221 No. 1
(South Tipperary) and Mr. T. O'Donnell asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he had prior notification from the B & I Line of the proposed five to ten per cent increase in livestock and freightage charges; and whether he has agreed to these increases which impinge so clearly on the export position and which do not appear to be in conformity with the general price restraint advocated and expected from private commercial interests and the community in general.
62.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is satisfied that the increased cross-Channel shipping rates arise as a result of increased costs; whether he is aware of the widespread alarm among exporters because of the increased costs involved for them; and whether he will take steps to have the increased rates fully investigated.
I propose with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 61 and 62 together.
I was aware of the proposal by the B & I to increase their rates but I have no statutory power to investigate or to control freight rates.
While I have not received any representations about alarm among exporters because of the proposed increase in cross-Channel freight rates, I am of course aware that they object to the increase. It will have been noted from press reports that the B & I hope, in about three months' time to make special arrangements for exporters.
Do the charges not come within the order on price control?
No.
Of any kind?
Not freight charges
Are freight charges the only exemption?
There are some other exemptions, too.
