asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will restore the subsidy on ground limestone immediately and the reasons the subsidy was withdrawn.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ground Limestone Subsidy.
53.
This subsidy was originally introduced at a time when farm incomes here were depressed in order to promote increased use of ground limestone and to demonstrate to farmers the value of lime as an input in agriculture. This objective has been well achieved over the years and it was accordingly decided that the subsidy scheme should be phased out so that the funds involved could be more effectively used in other areas of State expenditure on agriculture.
Is the Minister aware that ground limestone is of vital importance to reclaimed land, particularly in western Ireland, and that there is a marked decline in the amount of limestone being bought by farmers in that region?
I agree that the use of lime is important but I would not agree that there is a marked reduction in the amount being used.
There are one or two small limestone quarries which are in danger of closing because of the reduction in the use of lime.
I would be sorry to hear that but there should be no reduction——
Has the Minister any intention of restoring the subsidy?
No.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order paper.