asked the Taoiseach the volume and value of food imports to the Republic of Ireland for (a) 1980, (b) 1985 and (c) 1987.

I propose to circulate in the Official Report a statement giving the required information.

Following is the statement:

Imports

Imports

Note: The figures do not include:

(a) transactions (non-dutiable) of less than £100 each for 1985 and 1986 and £200 for 1987;

(b) trade by firms operating in Shannon Free Airport; and

(c) postal packages not covered by customs entries.

This is parliamentary privilege. Three figures were asked for. Could the Minister tell the House if there has been an increase or decrease in the food imports for the years in question?

A good question.

I shall be circulating a very detailed statement, but for Deputy Mitchell's information there has been an increase in 1987 of 1 per cent over 1985.

And a decrease in population.

The Taoiseach appointed a Minister with responsibility for food last year and on that account can we expect an improvement in the food import situation?

This is essentially a statistical question and the Deputy should more properly await the information.

Where is the Minister with responsibility for food?

The reply has been given in a statistical manner so that I cannot ask supplementary questions.

That was the nature of your question, Deputy.