asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that it is proposed to use homegrown wool in the new spinning mill now being erected in the Donegal Gaeltacht; and whether his Department will make provision for the introduction of a suitable breed of sheep to Donegal sheep-breeders with a view to improving the quality of the wool now produced.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Improvement in Wool Quality.
I am aware that it is proposed to erect a spinning mill in the County Donegal Gaeltacht, and that it is proposed to use home-produced wool in the mill. My Department has for a number of years been locating imported rams in County Donegal with a view to improving the foundation stocks of sheep in the county in conformation, type, hardiness and quality of the wool. In selecting these rams, special attention is paid to fleeces, bearing in mind that the first requisite of the fleece of a mountain sheep is its ability to protect the sheep from the inclemencies of the weather. It is proposed to continue these measures, and I am satisfied that the best policy is to improve the existing breeds which experience has proved to be suitable for the conditions prevailing in the county.