asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the shipment of chilled meat from Dublin and other ports has drastically declined in recent months and, if so, if he will take appropriate action to safeguard this important industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Chilled Meat Exports.
There is a seasonal decline in supplies of fat stock at this time of year and the dressed meat export trade is affected by the resulting market situation. The marketing of fat stock for export in carcase form or otherwise is on a freely competitive basis and is influenced by trade circumstances from time to time. Exports of carcase meat were at a very high level in the second half of 1954 and I have no reason to think that the recent reduction is more than temporary due to seasonal trade circumstances.
Is the Minister aware that the shipments of chilled meat fell by two-thirds since Christmas? In other words, the rate of export of chilled meat immediately prior to Christmas was 1,200 tons per week: in the last six weeks that figure has dropped to less than 400 tons per week. Furthermore, one important concern has had to close down. In view of the importance of this industry to our economy, will the Minister not take some steps to ensure continuity of employment?
The Deputy may not be aware that the exports of carcase beef for the second half of 1954 were almost double the quantity for the second half of 1953. It is true that there has been a decline in the first two months of this year. That decline is attributed to the very high prices being paid for live cattle.