Dáil Éireann - Volume 85 - 05 March, 1942

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Butter Distribution.

Mr. Dillon Mr. Dillon

Mr. Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that supplies of butter are not adequate in certain areas of the country; and, if so, whether he will take steps to transfer butter to such areas on request.

Minister for Agriculture (Dr. Ryan) James Ryan

Minister for Agriculture (Dr. Ryan): There is sufficient butter in store, with current production, to keep the country supplied until next season's production is available provided reasonable care is exercised in its use. No area should, therefore, ordinarily be short of supplies. I will look into the circumstances of any area to which the Deputy draws my attention.

Mr. Dillon Mr. Dillon

Mr. Dillon: Am I to take it that the Minister will arrange, where shortages arise in certain areas, to have butter, if necessary compulsorily, transferred to those areas from places where a surplus exists?

Dr. Ryan Dr. Ryan

2217

[2217] Dr. Ryan: I will do what I can. The Deputy will realise that the butter is not under my control; it is in the hands of private individuals, but I think something could be done if there is a serious shortage.

General Mulcahy General Mulcahy

General Mulcahy: The Minister has power under an Emergency Order to require sales to be made compulsorily.

Dr. Ryan Dr. Ryan

Dr. Ryan: I did not think of that power yet.

General Mulcahy General Mulcahy

General Mulcahy: But it is there.

Mr. Norton Mr. Norton

Mr. Norton: The Minister used it before in connection with the creameries.

Dáil Éireann 85 Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. Butter Distribution.

Questions

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