asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that there is little demand in the English markets at the present time for mackerel and herrings forwarded from Éire, and, as there is likely to be less demand during the coming spring season, if he will state if his Department intends to take any steps to assist the mackerel and herring industry of this country in seeking new markets, particularly for cured mackerel and herrings.

I am aware that the demand which existed in the British market during the past few years for fresh herring and mackerel is new declining. If the requisite materials for curing and packing become available I shall do what I can to find alternative markets for these fish, but I cannot give any guarantee as to the result of my efforts in that direction.

Is there any chance of getting any of that fish for Dublin?

Not that particular fish. I take it.

Herring?

There is any amount of herring in Dublin.

So I thought.