asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the slaughter of calves is still being carried on at Limerick and other centres; and, if so, whether he proposes to take steps to stop this undesirable practice.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Slaughter of Calves.
My powers in regard to the slaughter of calves are restricted to animals intended for export in carcase form which are presented to my inspectors for veterinary examination at premises registered under the Agricultural Produce (Fresh Meat) Acts. No calves have been slaughtered this year in any such premises in Limerick. At other centres 920 calves which were not intended for export were slaughtered in registered premises between 5th January last and 17th April. This compares with a total of 22,500 slaughtered in such premises in the same period last year. I have no information as to what slaughtering may take place elsewhere than in registered premises.
I am taking all possible measures to stop the slaughter of calves, and to that end I have already prohibited the export of veal and other calf products, and have refused to grant any facilities which might in any way tend to encourage what I, as well as the Deputy, regard as an undesirable practice. I have no power to prohibit slaughter for home use and, in any event, it would be impossible to enforce any such prohibition. I am hoping that the better prices now prevailing will induce farmers to retain all calves suitable for rearing, and that local authorities will not unnecessarily provide veterinary facilities for the carrying on of this most undesirable activity in cases where my Department have refused such facilities in order to discourage what could become a real menace to our live-stock industry.