asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that licences issued by his Department for the export of fat cattle are not being used but are being sold by some of the persons to whom they are issued; whether the profit made by the sale of such licences is helping to reduce the prices paid to the producers by those who purchase such licences, and whether he will indicate what steps, if any, he intends to take to stop this undesirable practice.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Licences for Fat Cattle
Dr. Ryan
I have no knowledge that the practice referred to in the opening portion of the question takes place. I have, however, heard statements made to that effect; but, as the Deputy will understand, it would be a matter of extreme difficulty to verify such statements.
I may point out that the licences for the export of fat cattle are now being issued to feeders only, and that the allocation of the licences is based on the recent census figures certified by the Department's inspectors. It appears very unlikely, therefore, that in the future sales of such licences will take place, as the feeder will naturally wish to use the licences allotted to him to enable him to sell his fat cattle.
Is it not possible for the Minister to use the good offices of his inspectors and compare the exports of fat cattle with the names on the licences issued by his Department?
Dr. Ryan
Yes, that would be possible, of course, but the position will not arise again.
Is the Minister aware that people who have received licences from his Department have actually been selling them at £2 or £2 10s. per licence?
Dr. Ryan
I have heard that.
And if he wants proof of it I would suggest that the Minister make further and more exhaustive inquiries in his Department.