asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries why, in view of the fact that the last consultation on the subject with interested organisations took place on 20th March, 1972, he has not yet been able to publish the White Paper on the advisory services.

38.

asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if it is intended to embark on a new round of consultations with all interested organisations on the proposed White Paper on the advisory services in view of the fact that the far-reaching EEC directives on farm modernisation and advice have been published since the original consultations were completed.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 38 together. As the preparation of the White Paper requires not only adequate consideration by my Department but also consultation with other State Departments in regard to matters affecting them, the period of preparation is no longer than necessary. Further consultations, as indicated by the Deputy, with organisations interested in the White Paper would not, in my opinion, serve any useful purpose at this stage and would indeed have the effect of prolonging the period of its preparation.

If no further consulsultations are necessary, why has the White Paper not been published?

We have had quite a lot of consultations with the interested parties during a reasonable period and now we have reached the stage where further consultations are not necessary. Arising out of the discussions we are getting on with the work of preparing the White Paper.

The last discussion took place on the 20th March.

Will Deputy Bruton please allow Questions to continue?