Is it not a fact that the maturity period was three years from 1915 to 1926 and that from 1926 until now it has been five years with regard to whiskey?

Yes, that is correct.

I also challenge the Minister on section 1 in relation to rum, that as far as I can make out from an external inspection rather than an internal feeling, it is not made from native materials as whiskey is and that whiskey, therefore, is one of the most valuable things we can produce because it comprises of all native material.

I was not comparing the two.

But is that not a fact? Perhaps the Minister is not sufficient of an expert on rum?

I think I have a fairly refined palate.

Could I ask the Minister how that famous whiskey known as "Three Crowns" came on the market if the statements made by the Minister and Deputy Sweetman be correct?

My acquaintance with inferior spirits is very slight.

The Minister, I presume, drinks Midleton?

I would say that a 15 year old Midleton is as fine a whiskey as one could drink.