asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to reports of international action by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations to protect Europe against the spread of a virulent foot and mouth disease; whether his Department have received any communication from the Food and Agriculture Organisation or any other interested body about the proposed meeting in Rome to discuss problems raised by the spread of this disease; and whether his Department will take part in this proposed meeting, or take any other action with regard to the spread of this disease.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.
34.
Ireland has been a member of the FAO European Commission for the control of Foot and Mouth Disease since its establishment in 1953 and has played an active part in the Commission's work. Notification was received from FAO of the emergency meeting of the Commission to be held on 20 and 21 July to consider an overall plan to prevent the spread to Europe of an African form of the disease. The Director of Veterinary Services of the Department is attending the meeting.