asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will have further investigations made as to the possibility of utilising Sligo Harbour for importing cargoes of manures and grain with the dual purpose of saving costs and providing employment for workers at that port.

As the importation and distribution of artificial fertilisers is effected through the ordinary trade channels, I have no power to direct importers as to what particular port cargoes should be consigned, but I would be glad to see the established importers of fertilisers in Sligo resuming their traditional use of the port.

As regards grain, so long as bulk purchases are being made and importation effected in ships carrying 8,000 10,000 tons each, it would not be practicable to use Sligo Port for grain imports.

Mr. B. Maguire rose.

The Minister said that he has no authority to direct importers. That being so, take Question No. 53.