asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that statements issued by hide and skin merchants reveal the fact that in January, 1939, the percentage of hides handled, which showed warble defects, was 32 per cent., and that the percentage for February, 1939, was 64 per cent.; and if, in view of these figures, he has satisfied himself that it is worth while to continue the scheme of eradicating the warble fly pest by local inspectors.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - The Warble Fly Pest.
I have seen in the Press the statements to which the Deputy refers, but I cannot admit that they represent the general position throughout the country in regard to the prevalence of warbles in our cattle. The reports relative to cattle passing through the ports furnished for the years 1936, 1937 and 1938 by the Department's veterinary staff show that there has been a steady decrease in the proportion of warbled cattle and particularly in regard to heavily infested animals. I am, therefore, satisfied that the scheme should be continued.