asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the demand for Irish store cattle in Great Britain is seriously affected by hides damaged by liver fluke and warble; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Damage to Cattle Hides.
38.
Mr. Donnellan
I am not aware that the demand for Irish store cattle in Britain has been seriously affected by the incidence of liver fluke and warble damage. Exports of store cattle have shown an appreciable increase in numbers and value since 1960 and the average price per head of exported stores has advanced considerably during the past five years.
Over the years my Department has taken every opportunity to encourage farmers to make use of such proven remedies as were available for the control of liver fluke and a series of tests are at present being carried out by the Department with products recently introduced for the systemic treatment of cattle affected with warbles.
Mr. Donnellan
Is the Minister aware that for every beast exported from this country £1. 5s. is taken for a damaged liver, whether it is damaged or not, plus £1. 5s. for the hide whether it is damaged or not? Would the Minister look into this matter because it means a loss? Regardless of the increased price for cattle, 50/- per head is stopped whether there is damage or not.
We are all aware that damage is caused by these parasites and we know that losses are sustained as a result of that damage. I have tried to tell the Deputy and the House what is being done but Deputies who know what this problem is like will readily concede that it is not a matter of easy solution. We know from the experience in other countries where efforts have also been made to eradicate this trouble that even compulsory measures have not been very successful. If one must resort to pleading with the public, one requires a very considerable amount of co-operation even if the drugs and preparations were available.
Mr. Donnellan
I am afraid the Minister did not get my point. Is he aware that whether the liver is damaged or not or whether the hide is damaged or not, exporters are charged £1. 5.0. in respect of the liver and £1. 5.0. in respect of the hide?
In all cases where the incidence is high and as the effects of the condition are not visually apparent, naturally those engaged in the business will protect themselves against possible loss.
Mr. Donnellan
Is that not all the more reason for stamping out the condition?
I should love to see a way of doing that if it could be found.