asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will give an explanation to the Dáil regarding the cause of the threatened shortage of fuel supplies in Dublin and elsewhere.

There is no immediate danger of a fuel shortage in Dublin or elsewhere. The Deputy is no doubt aware of the shortage of coal in the major producing countries which has limited the supply available. Any shortage of turf is due to the inclement weather during the summer and autumn.

Arising out of that reply, are we to understand that there is no danger of a shortage in the immediate future?

That is the reply.

Judging by newspaper reports and the experiences of those looking for fuel difficulties exist in the position. Would the Parliamentary Secretary not inform Deputy Fitzpatrick that the main reason why we are relying on the import of coal to the extent to which we are is because Deputy Fitzpatrick is supporting the Minister for Agriculture in putting peat up the spout?

Does the Deputy think he is funny?

We are putting it up the chimney.