asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will make more intensive efforts to publicise the food value of silage as distinct from hay, the value of self feed silage and the grants and loans for the construction of silage units by farmers.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Silage Feed Value.
22.
In recent years, and particularly following the introduction of the schemes of grants for forage harvesters in 1964, my Department together with the county committees of agriculture undertook considerable publicity and educational work to promote silage making by farmers. In this work, which is being continued, the feed value of silage, its advantages in our climatic conditions and the financial assistance available, have been stressed. The results are evident in the increase in the amount of silage made, from an estimated 427 thousand tons in 1963 to 2.4 million tons in 1968 and 3 million tons in 1969.
I can give the Minister for Transport and Power a job if he comes along for a few days any time he is ready but it will be no use coming in at half time.
Will Deputy L'Estrange please cease interrupting?
Is the Deputy going to sell this farm also?
We are not selling Ireland like the Minister.
(Interruptions.)
Will Deputy L'Estrange please restrain himself?