asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that large quantities of fowl are being bought up for export and, whether, in view of the deleterious effect on egg production of an unusual increase in the export of fowl, he will take measures to prevent it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Exports of Fowl.
I am aware that increased quantities of fowl have been bought up recently for export. The increased selling of fowl affects mainly the older hens that are not so profitable from the point of view of egg production. Now that feeding stuffs, especially grain, are more plentiful and egg prices better, poultry keepers will be encouraged to retain the younger stock for egg production. In the circumstances no special measures seem to be called for at the moment.
Does the Minister propose to take any steps to impose any obligation on persons dealing in hens to satisfy themselves that the fowl offered to them for sale are honestly come by? Have any complaints been made to the Minister that the theft of fowl by itinerant persons, for sale to hen exporters, has become a very serious problem in certain parts of the country?
No reports have been made to me, but that would be a matter for the Department of Justice.
Perhaps the Minister would consult the Department of Justice with a view to putting an end to that practice. It is very widespread.