asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that there is no demand at the present time for Kerry cattle, and that the small farmers of South Kerry are compelled to sell Kerry cattle at a very low price, as they cannot keep their surplus animals during the winter; and if he will state what steps he proposes to assist these farmers.
Ceisteanna. — Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Cattle Prices.
I am aware that the demand for certain classes of cattle, including Kerry cattle, is slow and that prices are lower than in the corresponding period of last year. I do not think, however, that the situation is such as to call for special action on my part.
May I assure the Minister that the situation is very serious? Is he aware that there is practically no demand for Kerry cattle in South Kerry, and that, as a result, farmers are compelled to sell good class bullocks at an average of £5 per head? The Minister must also remember that in certain areas in South Kerry the small farmers are compelled to keep nothing but Kerry cattle. In these circumstances, surely the Minister should come to the assistance of these small farmers.
I quite agree that the situation is bad, but not quite as bad as the Deputy says, because there is in the last resort the outlet of disposing of the cattle for dressed beef. Two year-old Kerry cattle would be worth £8 or £9 for that purpose.
Will the Minister send inspectors down to South Kerry to buy cattle at £8 or £9 per head?
Our inspectors do not buy cattle.
You did it before.
Under a special scheme approved by the Dáil.