asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware that considerable difficulty was experienced by the people of Cork in procuring heavy boots last winter; and, if so, if he will make arrangements now to ensure that a reasonable supply, together with material for making such boots, will be available next winter.

I would refer the Deputy to the replies given in Dáil Eireann on the 9th November last to questions of a similar nature.

Surely, since that time, the reduction in the requirements of the Army may be expected to yield a larger supply of heavy boots for the civilian population.

That position has not arisen yet.

Surely we may anticipate that before next winter that position will have arisen.

I want the House to appreciate that the total production of men's heavy boots in this country is as high as ever it was. The position is that the demand for such boots is substantially greater because of the disappearance of rubber boots. There is little prospect of increased production of heavy boots in the present supply position.

Is the Minister not aware that manufacturers are at this moment—certainly they were a couple of months ago—informing their customers that they are unable to supply them with heavy boots because their entire output is required by the Army?

No. That is not correct.

Certainly, that information has been given to retailers. While no one grudged them to the Army when the Army wanted them, may we not anticipate that with the proposals in hand for the gradual demobilisation of the Army, the demand of the Army for boots will tend to decrease?

It is a fair assumption that the demand from the Army for boots will decrease when demobilisation has been effected.

Thus releasing a larger percentage for civilian use?

Could the Minister say if the position will be better next winter than it was last winter?

I am afraid, as a prophet, I do not claim any special distinction.

But as Minister for Supplies, reasonable prescience might be expected.