§ 103. Mr. F. MEEHANasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether he is aware that, owing to the wet autumn, it was impossible for farmers to get in any winter crops; whether he will state what steps the Department purposed taking to encourage more tillage; and whether they will consider the advisability of supplying seeds to small farmers or granting bonuses?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Duke)The Department of Agriculture in Ireland are aware that the sowing of wheat has been delayed by the wet season. A considerable area has, however, already been sown, and sowing is still proceeding. Catch crops were got in while the weather was favourable. The staff of instructors employed under the Department's agricultural schemes throughout the country are making special efforts to promote the increase of tillage by means of lectures, visits to farms, and Press notices. Suitable leaflets have been issued in large numbers by the Department, and advice is furnished to all inquirers. The question of general seed distribution is a measure for the relief of distress, and would come under the purview of the Local Government Board and not of the Department, who have no funds applicable to the purpose; nor have the Department funds for the granting of bonuses to farmers for increased tillage, a course which in any event the Department do not consider desirable.
§ Mr. SCANLANMay I ask whether the various Departments having charge of land in Ireland, such as the Estates Commissioners, the Congested Districts Board and the Local Government Board, are at the present time applying themselves to the question of whether more land can be brought under tillage in Ireland? I believe all those Departments are doing that. [An HON. MEMBER: "Are they working together?"]