andMr. Donnellan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries whether there has been a decline in the acreage under wheat in recent years; and, if so, if he will indicate the reason.

The wheat acreages in 1970 and 1971 were, in fact, above those for many previous years.

Has the Parliamentary Secretary any estimate for this year?

No.

26.

andMr. Donnellan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the total acreage under wheat in 1955, 1965 and 1970.

233,700 acres in 1970; 182,200 in 1965 and 358,000 in 1955.

There is a reduction there of over 117,000 acres. Surely the Parliamentary Secretary remembers when the Fianna Fáil Party told us that we should and could produce all our own wheat and have an all-Irish loaf? Will he not now admit that the reason for the reduction in the acreage under wheat is that the price has not kept pace with the decline in money values?

The Deputy should be aware that wheat prices here are practically the same as within the EEC. There has been a decline in the consumption of bread and, on the other hand, an enormous increase in the acreage under barley because of the increase in livestock numbers and the need for increased feed.

Have you done away with the "Grow More Wheat" stamp?

What about the "Grow More Wheat" campaign?

(Cavan): Deputy Dillon has been vindicated.