asked the Minister for External Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the statement made on the Russian-controlled Berlin Radio that the gift of 2,000 head of cattle from Ireland was made by Irish Communists; and if he will take steps (a) to correct this misstatement, and (b) to endeavour to ensure that it will be known beyond any doubt by the recipients who the donors really were.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Cattle Gift to Germany.
I am not aware that Berlin Radio has stated that the gift of 2,000 head of cattle from Ireland was made by Irish Communists, though I have seen a newspaper report alleging that the people of Berlin did not know where the cattle came from and were being told that they were sent by Irish Communists. When my attention was called to this report some time ago, I immediately took steps to see that full publicity would be given to the source of the Irish cattle made available to Germany. I have every reason to believe that it is now well known in that country that the cattle have been sent within the framework of the relief programme approved by the Dáil last June.
Are there any Irish Communists?
That is a separate question.