asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state what precautions he has taken, or intends to take, to safeguard the interests of the producers of fat cattle, especially during the stall-feeding season, from an undue advantage being taken by exporters, competition among whom is reduced by reason of the limited number of export licences available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Fat Cattle.
As the Deputy is aware, the present restrictions on the export of fat cattle are of a temporary nature. I am having the whole position kept under constant review, and if I should have reasons for concluding that the temporary arrangements of a voluntary nature now made for limiting the export of fat cattle are prejudicial to the interests of the producers I shall take such measures as may be necessary in the matter.
Can the Minister say when this temporary period will expire?
I could not.
Is there any assurance that the numbers will be increased?
No.
Has the Minister no information at all on that point?
It is presumed that this is a temporary arrangement.
Would it not be well that the House should get some information concerning the live-stock industry?
It is not possible to get it.