asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that owners of thoroughbred sires in Ireland have suffered heavy financial losses owing to the fact that owners of cross-Channel brood mares, as a result of the tariff on foals, are reluctant to send them to Ireland; and if he will state what, if any, action to remedy or alleviate this condition of affairs has been taken by his Department since my previous question on this subject.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Stud Farming and Embargo on Live Stock.
Dr. Ryan
I am aware that there has been a falling off in the number of thoroughbred mares sent from across Channel for service in the Saorstát. The decline has not, however, been so pronounced as the question would suggest, and I am by no means convinced that it is entirely due to the British tariffs or to any other cause which it is possible to remedy by Government action in this country.
Would the Minister think of having a mock auction on some of those mares?