asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries what proposals An Foras Talúntais have recommended to his Department as a result of its research on the more profitable use of Drumlin soils for farming purposes; if he will give details of the recommendations accepted and those rejected; and if he will make a statement on what progress has been made in making those soils more profitable and on the further progress that can be made in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Soil Research.
33.
My Department and An Foras Talúntais have been working in close co-operation on the problems of Drumlin soils for a number of years but, arising from their research work, An Foras has not specifically made recommendations for the more profitable utilisation of these soils for farming. Drumlin soils in general are best suited to grass production, and dairying based on good grassland management, calf rearing and pig production are some of the activities that can profitably be pursued by farmers in the area. The Drumlin areas have, of course, shared in the progress which farming in general has made through improved drainage, fertilisation and management techniques and I have no doubt that this progress will be continued.
If An Foras Talúntais have not specifically made proposals, just how have they made proposals? In what form?
They are still carrying out investigations in this particular area as to the best method of dealing with this problem. In 1954 a scheme was introduced for top drainage, but this has now become virtually nonexistent because of lack of interest by farmers in this type of drainage. There are very big difficulties to be overcome and An Foras Talúntais, in co-operation with my Department, are trying to find the best solution possible, but they have not made any specific proposals.
What kind of suggestions have they made? I presume the word "specifically" would not have been introduced into the reply had An Foras Talúntais not made further proposals.
They are carrying out further investigations in conjunction with the officers of my Department arising out of the investigations they have already carried out.
Have they made any suggestions?
No.
What is the purpose of the word "specifically" in the reply? Why is it qualified in that way?
It is just that investigations are still going on.
The Civil Service do not introduce adjectives or adverbs without reason, in my experience.