Vol. 331 No. 12
asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will consider a beet acreage subsidy for the forthcoming beet season in the Tuam factory area; the figure he would decide on to meet the loss per ton in that area due to its geographical location and climatic conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
243.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will consider paying a subsidy of £3 on every ton of washed sugar beet grown west of the Shannon in order to encourage the production of sugar beet there.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 242 and 243 together.
The Government are anxious to do all in their power to encourage beet growing west of the Shannon. They have, as the Deputies are aware, decided that Exchequer resources should be provided to facilitate the continued production of sugar at Tuam for the coming beet season.
Discussions on the price and terms of contract for the coming year are at present taking place between CSET and the Beet and Vegetable Growers Association. Under Community regulations state aids for the production of sugar beet are not allowed.
