asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware of the case of a person who sent a goose and a turkey by registered post to a relative in Northern Ireland; and that some time afterwards both birds were returned in an advanced state of decay although they were correctly addressed; if such gifts were prohibited entry to Northern Ireland, why this was not explained to the sender at the time of registration of the parcels; and what steps he proposes to take to have full compensation paid to the sender.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Poultry Consignment to Northern Ireland.
10.
The prohibition referred to should have been brought to the notice of the person tendering the parcels. Although responsibility for complying with import regulations rests primarily on the sender it is proposed in the circumstances to pay compensation in this instance.
Does the Parliamentary Secretary propose to pay the full compensation for the loss of the goose and turkey at their market value prior to Christmas?
It is very hard to work out the actual loss because of the fact that the birds were sent back before Christmas and the complaint was not brought to the attention of the Department until February.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that if the birds had not been sent back, they were in such a condition that they could have gone across the Border themselves?