asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that rams are sent out to the farmers from the low-lying and sheltered lands of the Muckross estate when aged about one and a half years; and, if so, whether he will consider the advisability of ensuring that these animals are allowed to graze on the mountain land attached to the estate for about nine months prior to their sale to farmers so that they may be better able to withstand the rigours of winter on the bleak mountains of South Kerry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sheep Breeding in South Kerry.
Mr. Walsh
I am informed that these rams are grazed periodically on the mountains before they are placed with farmers. There is no evidence that the rams are unable to withstand the rigours of winter on the Kerry mountains. On the contrary, their exceptional hardiness has been commented on by sheep breeders in Kerry and elsewhere.