asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state what steps, if any, have been taken to secure that supplies of firewood will be available for the cities and towns during the coming winter.

No control is exercised by my Department over the movement of firewood supplies within the State, and consumers of fuel who wish to obtain supplies of firewood, either in addition to or in substitution for turf, are free to make their own arrangements to secure them, subject to the maximum prices fixed by me.

Surely the Minister is aware that in various parts of the country to-day no firewood is available? He should also be aware that owing to the wretched conditions of the wet turf offered for sale, it is impossible for poor people to keep it lighting without wood blocks.

I am not aware of anything of the kind.

The Minister should make inquiries.

Full inquiries were made and full inspection carried out of the quality of the turf.

The inspectors are not telling the truth.

They are far more likely to tell the truth than the Deputy.

Thanks.