andMrs. Burke asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will consider allowing private hauliers to transport small numbers of cattle bought by farmers at fairs in local towns where CIE have not transport available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transport of Cattle.
4.
In addition to CIE, hauliers so licensed under the Road Transport Acts may also carry cattle for reward and I am satisfied that there is no inadequacy of lorries to serve fairs and marts.
Under section 27 of the Transport Act, 1958, farmers may transport livestock for their neighbours resident within two miles by road for reward by tractor and trailer to or from a farm from or to a market, fair or mart, within a distance of 20 miles by public road from the carrier's residence on the day on which the market, fair or mart takes place, provided the tractor being used for the carriage is one in respect of which the rate of duty applicable to a tractor used only for haulage in connection with agriculture, i.e. £2 10s. per annum, is chargeable. Representations have been made to me to have this particular concession extended and these representations are, at present, being examined.
I have no intention of permitting carriage of cattle for reward by lorry owners not licensed under the Road Transport Acts.
Would the Minister re-examine this matter and consider allowing lorry owners to carry cattle for hire or reward? In my constituency, at most fairs, farmers buy one or two cattle. There are a number of private lorry owners and private hauliers and these people would be prepared to take on this work for the farmers at a nominal rate.
This is argument. It is not asking a question.
The first part of the Minister's reply conveyed that. He should consider allowing these people to carry the cattle for farmers.
The reply indicates that the Minister does not intend to allow those people, who are not licensed, to carry on this business.
What are the people to do if they want to have their cattle brought home?
CIE make facilities available. The extension of this business is being discussed.
CIE transport is not available.
The information given to me on this matter is that CIE, at very short notice, have transport available.