asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries whether he has taken, or proposes to take, any steps to rationalise the marketing of livestock.
34.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Marketing of Livestock.
33.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he intends setting up a proper marketing organisation to sell cattle, sheep and meat products; and, if so, when.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose taking Questions Nos. 33 and 34 together.
I would refer the Deputies to what I said in replying to the debate on the Vote for Agriculture on 26th May last. I pointed out then that I consider there is a good case for the establishment of a suitable form of board in connection with meat export marketing. The establishment of such a board, however, raises many issues, covering livestock as well as meat. These issues are, at present, being examined and I shall announce my conclusions thereon in the near future.
As Deputies are aware, I appointed a study group some time ago to investigate all aspects of our store cattle trade and the recommendations of this group will, of course, have a considerable bearing on what should be done in regard to that trade.
Is the Minister not aware that a marketing board has been sought by the farmers' representatives and by Deputies during the past two years? Had he to wait for a crisis to occur before doing something about marketing?
Does the Deputy realise that the establishment of such a board requires legislation?
Does the Minister realise that it is time such legislation was brought before the House?
I am calling Question No. 35.