asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state how many horses were exported to European countries for slaughter since the beginning of this year and whether horses for export could be slaughtered and processed before export; and further, if he will take steps to prevent the export for slaughter of horses which are less than nine years old.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Horses for Slaughter.
I have no information as to the use to which horses are put after exportation from the country and, consequently, I am not in a position to supply the figure asked for by the Deputy in the first part of his question.
As regards the second part, I would refer the Deputy to the very full statement made by me in this matter on the 8th June, 1948, in reply to questions by Deputy Cowan and Deputy Lynch.
As regards the third part of the question, I see no ground to justify the imposition of further restrictions on the export of horses, over and above those at present in operation, which are designed to ensure that no mistreatment of the horses exported will eventuate.