asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he expects to introduce a Supplementary Estimate to cover the increases in expenditure on agriculture announced in the budget.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Expenditure.
46.
Yes.
Can the Minister say when it will be introduced?
I have not got that information.
Would the Minister not agree that this is a most unusual situation? It is now only the middle of May and the Minister has told us that there will be a Supplementary Estimate for Agriculture. Can the Minister say why this increase was not allowed for in the budget and what are the peculiar circumstances in relation to the increase over the Estimate?
Would the Minister not agree that it will be desirable to have this Supplementary Estimate introduced as early as possible so that we will not have a repeat of what happened last year when changes announced in the budget were not approved by way of Supplementary Estimate until the financial year had ended and the money had been spent?
Why is it necessary to have a Supplementary Estimate?
I will convey the Deputies' views to the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries.
Can the Minister say why it is necessary to have a Supplementary Estimate?
If the Deputy wants that information, he should put down a question.
This is making very little of the House.
If Deputy Collins wants to have a cut-back, he can have it.
The proper Estimate should be passed by the House at the proper time.