asked the Minister for Finance if he will comment on the lack of progress in finalising beet price negotiations for this year.

Negotiations on beet price come within the day-to-day commercial administration of Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann Teoranta and are outside the scope of my functions in regard to the company. I understand that agreement has been reached between the company and the growers' representatives.

The Minister knows that this is wrong.

Question No. 98.

Will you please give me a chance at him?

I said in my reply that agreement has been reached between the company and the beet-growers.

The Minister said that a long time ago. He is closing two factories.