asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries why the claim submitted by a person (name supplied) for compensation for loss of a bullock treated for warble fly, has not been paid although the claim has been outstanding since November, 1965.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Compensation for Loss of Bullock.
76.
The claim to which the Deputy refers was one of over 1,800 which arose out of the 1965 warble fly eradication campaign. The individual examination and assessment of these claims proved time-consuming and difficult. Most of them had to be referred to a small consultative committee of veterinarians which I established to advise in the assessment of the claims. The great majority of the claims has now been disposed of including the claim in question. I might mention that certain necessary documentation for the vouching of this claim did not come to hand in my Department until about a month ago.
I am glad that it is now in the Minister's possession, but is he aware that the necessary documentation was in the possession of those who should have made it available to his Department since November, 1965?
I regret the delay.
(Cavan): The Minister seems to have figures, and could he say what percentage of the claims were disallowed and what percentage were allowed?
I think I have already given that information to the House. I have not got it at the moment.