asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that rabbits are increasing rapidly in this country; that they are doing thousands of pounds worth of damage annually to grass and growing crops, and if he will make their destruction more remunerative by increasing the bounty, and thereby induce more trappers to get after them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Destruction of Rabbits.
I am not aware that the number of rabbits throughout the country is increasing. The information at my disposal would indicate that in most districts they are now less numerous than a year ago. The increased quantities of rabbits exported in recent years show that the existing rate of export bounty has resulted in making the killing of rabbits by trapping and other means sufficiently attractive to secure a reduction in numbers. In these circumstances I do not see my way to recommend an increase in the present rate of bounty.