asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that large numbers of cattle offered for sale at fairs in recent months cannot be disposed of owing to the poor demand, and that many farmers cannot afford to hold over for the winter months as they need the money, and have no suitable grazing land accommodation, and if he will state what steps he proposes to take to relieve the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Surplus.
I am aware that for some time past the offerings of cattle at fairs have been in excess of the demand due to the fact that export trade has been dull. The position in that respect has, however, improved in recent months, the exports since July last being better than in the corresponding period of 1943. As regards the latter part of the question, pastures are good on the whole and I do not think that the situation is so serious as to call for special relief measures.
At the present time, many farmers find it hard to get even what they paid in the month of May, June or July for cattle, while others have been selling at less than they paid. Some of the farmers have to sell the cattle, as they cannot afford to hold them. If the Minister has a hope that the price may increase in the near future, or at the beginning of the year, would he make a public announcement and tell the people to hold in the meantime, if at all possible, for higher prices? Otherwise, certain farmers will have to sell their cattle at throw-away prices and will be at a great disadvantage, as they will not be able to re-buy.
The Deputy has a habit of making nice little speeches instead of asking supplementaries.