asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that owners of lime-kilns are unable to secure adequate quantities of native culm for their requirements; and, if so, whether he will consider the desirability of arranging for the import of culm in order to facilitate farmers who require burnt lime for their crops.

No previous representations have been made to me regarding a shortage of culm for lime-kilns. Any shortage which exists is very likely of a temporary nature due to the strike in the Castlecomer Colliery. Meanwhile, fuel merchants are at liberty to import culm on the importation of which there are at present no restrictions.