asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether maize, imported from America, and valued at £1,300,000, is at present lying in stores in Dublin and is either totally or partly unfit for human or animal consumption; if so, if he will state the reasons why this position has arisen; further, if he will state whether it is intended that maize will form a substantial part of the diet of the people in the forthcoming year; and if he will make a statement on these matters.

The maize in stock in Dublin is at present in process of distribution to the maize-millers for animal feeding purposes. The landed value of this maize was about £215,000. The others matters in the Deputy's question will be covered in a statement which I propose to make next week.

Can the Minister say whether it is a fact that a large proportion of the maize is unfit for animal or human consumption at the moment?

The maize is unfit for human consumption, but it is not unfit for animal consumption.

At what other ports was maize landed besides Dublin?

I would require notice of that question.

It is a separate question.