asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that there is a glut of small store cattle on the hands of farmers in South Kerry at the moment; and, if so, whether he will have the position examined with a view to enabling the farmers to dispose of these cattle at a fair price.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disposal of Small Store Cattle.
Mr. Walsh
I understand that, owing to the late season, farmers in South Kerry as in some other areas have been unable to dispose of their stock as early as usual. There is however good reason to believe that the position will improve as the season advances and that feeders will be prepared to buy small cattle at reasonable prices.
Is the Minister aware that buyers who were sent to purchase cattle in my county for the canning factories on a fixed price basis paid only one-third of the price allowed them by the factories? Is he aware that that was tantamount to robbery of the producers of South Kerry and will he consider the suggestion that the Government should set up some organisation and allow these farmers to send their cattle direct to the factories where they can get the maximum price or some decent price for their cattle, as has been done by the bacon factories over a number of years?
Mr. Walsh
Yes, I will consider that.
Is the Minister aware that Deputy Flynn by his aid in the election of the Minister for Agriculture has left people standing beside these cattle in the fairs throughout the whole south-west of Ireland?
They were there months before the present Government came in.