asked the Taoiseach if he will state for the year 1968-69 the cost at Dublin port of the following types of fruit pulp imported, stating the country of origin and the quantity of each type imported: (a) raspberry, (b) blackcurrant, (c) gooseberry and (d) strawberry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fruit Pulp Imports.
1.
Separate data are not available in respect of imports through the port of Dublin. However, with your permission, Sir, I propose to circulate in the Official Report a statement showing particulars of total imports, during the 12 months ended March, 1969, of fruit pulp of the varieties mentioned by the Deputy.
Following is the statement:
Imports of certain fruit pulps in the period April, 1968-March, 1969.
|
Item and Country of Origin |
Quantity (cwt.) |
Value (£) |
Average c.i.f. price per cwt. (at Port of Entry) |
||||
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|||||
|
Raspberry pulp |
Netherlands |
1,696 |
10,327 |
6 |
1 |
9 |
|
|
,, |
,, |
Yugoslavia |
204 |
1,216 |
5 |
19 |
3 |
|
Blackcurrant |
,, |
Netherlands |
199 |
1,962 |
9 |
17 |
2 |
|
,, |
,, |
Belgium |
228 |
3,086 |
13 |
10 |
8 |
|
Gooseberry |
,, |
Netherlands |
78 |
370 |
4 |
14 |
10 |
|
Strawberry |
,, |
— |
— |
— |
— |
It is rather a pity that the Minister has not got the information. Is the Minister aware that fruit pulp is imported late in the season from a number of European countries, including Britain and the Netherlands, at a much higher rate than is being paid for local fruit or fruit pulp? Would the Government not consider that it would be a good idea if they would try to encourage the growing of the full requirement of fruit in this country? Perhaps the Minister for Social Welfare would like to make a comment?
I would like notice of that question.