andM.P. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture whether in view of the recent remarks on the subject in the report of the Central Bank, and in view of the fact that in the event of this country becoming associated with E.E.C. there is likely to be an increased demand for beef, he will take steps towards encouraging an increase in the number of in-calf heifers in this country.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - In-Calf Heifers.
16.
As was made clear in the White Paper on Economic Expansion published in 1958, the Government's programme in agriculture aims primarily at securing an expansion in the beef breeding herd and all practicable steps are being taken to induce farmers to retain more heifers and to rear more calves for the beef market. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the number of cattle in the country in June, 1960, was the highest on record and we can confidently look forward to further expansion, especially if the present rate of progress in the eradication of bovine T.B. is maintained.