asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his Department purchased a Friesian bull for £2,835 at the British Friesian Cattle Society's Bull Show and if it proposed to purchase others of the same breed at similar prices.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchase of Friesian Bull.
Mr. Walsh
One of the six bulls purchased by my Department at this sale was the reserve junior champion, for which the price was as stated by the Deputy.
Some further purchases of Friesian bulls may be made, but it is, of course, impossible to forecast prices. The prices paid by my Department at the recent sale ranged from £315 to the figure mentioned in the Deputy's question.
Can the Ministersay if this bull had the same owner as Tulyar? A sum of £2,835 for a bull!
Mr. Walsh
It is not unusual.
I think there are a few fellows wiping your eye.
Might I inquire from the Minister whether a number of orders have been placed with the British Friesian Cattle Society for bulls at prices ranging from £2,000 to £3,000 each?
Mr. Walsh
Who has placed the orders?
The Department of Agriculture.
Mr. Walsh
No; that is not true.