asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he will consider supplying the requirements of the country in day-old chicks at cost price by encouraging the setting up, in a few counties, of giant hatcheries, under the control of the county committees of agriculture, for experimental purposes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of Hatcheries.
A number of large hatcheries have been established during recent years, some by private enterprise and many by co-operative societies. It is considered that further development should more appropriately be on the same lines rather than be undertaken by committees of agriculture who have their own functions in regard to the poultry industry.
Does the Minister appreciate the difficulties that private individuals have experienced in so far as they are attempting to control B.W.B. — that is where they get eggs from private sources?
I take it that the Deputy is referring to the spread of disease. In connection with that I may say that proposals for legislation will be introduced shortly in order to regulate that and some other matters.