asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he proposes to form a cattle breeding council; if so, when; what the basis of such a council will be; if it will act in an advisory capacity to his Department; and in what way it is to be representative of all interests.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Breeding Council.
20.
Certain proposals for the progeny testing of bulls and for milk recording have been circulated by my Department to the interests directly concerned and are at present under discussion with them. These proposals include the setting up of a cattle improvement council which it is intended would be representative of the general farming interests concerned including producers, artificial insemination stations, pedigree breeders and the cattle and meat export trades as well as my Department. The council would act in an advisory capacity.
Will the Minister take over the chairmanship?
I will ask the Deputy, if I am stuck.
The Minister must have been struck when he got the black eye.
Has the Minister any idea when this most desirable council will be functioning?
The council will sit as I have indicated in my reply. Proposals in relation to this matter have been circulated to the various interests.
Very early in the new year?
I should not like to commit myself. I have no idea at the moment. Negotiations will be necessary.
Will the Minister say whether or not cattle breeding policy will be the responsibility of this council?
No, not of this council.