asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware of the existence of public uneasiness in reference to the export of horses and donkeys to the Continent of Europe, and their treatment during transit and before slaughter; and, if so, if he will have the conditions of their export and treatment investigated and consider whether, if such export trade is of such economic importance that it must be continued, slaughtering could be done in this country; and, further, if he will make a statement on the entire matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Horses and Donkeys for Slaughter.
Mr. Walsh
I am not aware of any general public uneasiness about the matter referred to in the first part of the question but I am aware that certain organisations have been endeavouring to promote opposition to the export of live horses.
As regards the second part of the question, there is nothing I can usefully add to my replies to questions on the subject on 20th February, 1952, and 28th June, 1951, and to my predecessor's reply to similar questions on 8th June, 1948.
Mr. Byrne
asked the Minister for Agriculture if a memorandum has been received in his Department from the Dumb Friends' League regarding the export for slaughter of donkeys and horses; and, if so, if he will state (a) whether examination of the memorandum has yet been completed, and (b) when a reply to it will issue.
Mr. Walsh
The only communication received by me from the league on this subject was a letter in which it was suggested that a prohibition should be placed on the export of mares suitable for breeding purposes. Receipt of the letter was acknowledged and the further reply promised thereto is now about to issue.
Mr. Byrne
Are the Minister and his Department going to sit back and allow this trade in the slaughter of horses, with the cruelty that follows while they are being shipped, to continue? There have been indications from many counties that they are depending on the Minister to see that this trade will not continue.
Is the Minister aware that there are groups of people in this country concerning themselves with what is not their business, namely, agricultural matters?