asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state when he expects to bring before the Dáil his proposals for the slaughtering of surplus cattle; and further if he will state if the contemplated destruction is to be extended to other products such as butter, eggs, oats and turkeys.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Slaughtering of Surplus Cattle.
I am not at present in a position to state when the proposals referred to will be brought before the Dáil.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, would he say whether it is his intention eventually to bring such proposals before the Dáil?
Dr. Ryan
If it is necessary.
Would the Minister say if it is his intention to include the progeny of the heifers bought under the Minister's own scheme as well as the others?
Dr. Ryan
Include them in what?
The Minister was not quite explicit with regard to the second part of the question. Are we to understand from the Minister that his Bill for the slaughter of surplus cattle will also include provisions for the destruction of the other agricultural products mentioned in the second part of the question—butter, eggs, etc.
Arising out of the Minister's answer that he may have to resort to the slaughter of cattle, does he propose to take any steps as regards the bull sales to be held in Dublin next week and in connection with which a lot of public money will be spent?
That is a separate question.
In view of the apparent intention of the Minister to introduce legislation to enable him to destroy part of the oats crop, would it not be more economical to prevent people from sowing oats now so that there will be no need for its destruction later?
Dr. Ryan
I have no such intention. The Deputy knows quite well that we have not half enough oats in the country for our requirements.
I would like to know from Deputy Dillon if he approves of the Minister's policy which has resulted in an increase in the price of oats from 6d. to 10d. per stone?
That is a separate question.