asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he has received complaints that there is insufficient allocation of maize to co-operative societies in western areas; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allocation of Maize.
7.
Allocations of maize to co-operative societies in western areas are no more restricted than those given to private concerns. The total imports of maize are, of course, restricted to provide a market for native grain. Co-operative societies could perform a useful function in promoting the use of native grain in preference to maize.
Does the Minister not think that if private industry is to be induced to use native grain by the importation of relatively large quantities of maize, the co-operative societies, who do as much, should have access to the same inducement? Millers are allowed to import maize if they use native grain.
I have said that the allocation of maize to the co-operative societies is not more restricted than to private enterprise.
You are not prepared to say that they will be treated on a basis of strict equality with the millers.
I am not prepared to say that I agree with the importation of maize if it can be avoided.
Is the Minister prepared to agree that the co-operative societies should have the same facilities as the millers to import maize?
I am prepared to say that they will be treated in the same way as any other private concern.
Is the Minister aware that last year £22 million worth of grains was imported.
That matter does not arise on this question.
What was it mainly composed of?
Of what you said in the past should be grown here.
It differs from year to year because of the millable quality of the wheat.