asked the Taoiseach if, in view of the NIEC Report on Incomes and Prices Policy, he will consider including representatives of the farming sector on the National Industrial and Economic Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - NIEC.
2.
I refer the Deputy to replies to previous questions on the 22nd October, 1969, and the 5th February, 1970, concerning, in a more general way, the question of agricultural representation on the National Industrial Economic Council. It was indicated in those replies that the Government had decided on the formation of a National Economic Council, in succession to the National Industrial Economic Council, which would include representatives of agriculture and other sectors not at present represented.
The question of agricultural representation is one of a number at present under consideration in connection with the establishment of the new council. The necessary arrangements will be finalised as soon as possible.
Can the Taoiseach say when the new council will go into operation?
I could not give the Deputy an indication of the date. This is a rather delicate matter in so far as adequate and accurate agricultural representation is concerned. It is not the only problem that is now under consideration. The Government will, within a short time, I hope, consider all the problems and decide what best can be done to include agricultural representation.
Further arising from the reply, surely the Taoiseach is aware that the implementation of an incomes and prices policy could be very much lacking with the absence of such representation?
I accept that entirely.
If the Government intend pursuing an incomes and prices policy, surely the position should be remedied immediately?
As the Deputy is aware, the remedy is not in the hands of the Government. The question of adequate and satisfactory agricultural representation is a very difficult one and one which is mainly in the hands of the respective agricultural organisations.
Can the Taoiseach say when the present NIEC terms of appointment expire?
I have not got that information offhand.
Surely the Taoiseach will agree that his predecessor said the NAC was being set up as a substitute for representation on the NIEC but this does not appear to have worked out? Will the Taoiseach not also agree that this matter is long overdue and that something must be done in order to provide for proper representation of the farming interests? Furthermore, it is not good enough to say that this is a matter for the agricultural interests because they have no say in it at the present time.
I am not saying that it is entirely a matter for the agricultural interests. It is a matter for them as well as for the Government. It is important that we get agreement among these bodies whom we have been encouraging to come to some agreement so that we can set up a properly constituted NEC.
What happened the NAC?
It died.
We know who the undertaker was.
(Interruptions.)
NAC, R.I.P.