asked the Minister for Supplies (a) if he will state the position as regards the production of sole and harness leather in Éire in relation to demand, and (b) if he is aware that boot repairers throughout the country are experiencing difficulties in getting sufficient supplies.

As regards sole leather and supplies of boot repairing requisites generally I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a similar question on the 4th instant. As regards harness leather, I understand that reasonable supplies have been available to harness makers.