asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the increased costs of fertilisers; and what steps he proposes to take to have them provided for farmers at economic prices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cost of Fertilisers.
174.
I am not aware that the prices of fertilisers have been increased. Substantial subsidies are paid from the Exchequer on phosphatic and potassic fertilisers which reduce the prices of these fertilisers to farmers.
A Fianna Fáil member of the Meath agricultural committee said devaluation had increased the cost of fertilisers. Perhaps the Minister would inform him that he was talking through his hat?
I am aware that some fertiliser manufacturers have advertised that there will be increases in prices but I am not aware that prices of fertilisers have increased.
Surely the Minister is aware that advertisements have appeared appealing to people to buy now at the old prices? Certainly, I am aware of it, as I know from my own merchant that prices are going up from £1 to 30/- per ton. He told me that anything he had in stock he would give at the old price but that anything he had to get in would be dearer.
If the Deputy will bring to my attention any increase in the price of fertilisers that has taken place, I shall be glad to investigate it.