asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will outline the methods and manpower available to local authorities for the enforcement of sheep dipping regulations; and if he considers that they are adequate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sheep Dipping Scheme.
42.
The Sheep Dipping Order, 1965, requires that all sheep be dipped twice each year with an approved sheep dip. The implementation of this requirement is a matter for the local authorities, which employ sheep dipping inspectors for the purpose. During 1971 a total of 700 of these inspectors were employed.
I consider that given the full co-operation of every sheep owner the provisions are adequate.
Would the Minister not consider that the incidence of sheep scab would persuade an independent observer to think that the enforcement measures being taken are not particularly effective?
I would not in any way seek to minimise the danger of the incidence of sheep scab to the national sheep flock but I suggest that what appears to be a rise in recent years in the incidence of sheep scab is most likely an increase in its detection, which is the result of more frequent inspections by Department officials in connection with the subsidy scheme.
When does the Minister expect that the incidence of sheep scab will begin to fall?
I suggest it has begun to fall already. There are statistics on this subject in a late reply.
43.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the number of reported cases of sheep scab in each of the past six years; the amount spent in each of those years in the provision of sheep dipping facilities; and if he will outline his future plans for the eradication of sheep scab.
The number of cases of sheep scab reported in each of the past six years is as follows:—
|
1965-66 |
34 |
|
1966-67 |
19 |
|
1967-68 |
24 |
|
1968-69 |
65 |
|
1969-70 |
91 |
|
1970-71 |
81 |
My Department do not provide sheep dipping facilities. This is a matter for local authorities or flock owners themselves. I have, therefore, no information as to the amount spent on the provision of such facilities. Grants towards the cost of sheep dipping facilities are made available by my Department and the amount so provided in each of the past six years is as follows:—
|
£ |
|
|
1965-66 |
4,714 |
|
1966-67 |
13,127 |
|
1967-68 |
10,901 |
|
1968-69 |
8,408 |
|
1969-70 |
2,499 |
|
1970-71 |
3,272 |
As the Deputy is aware, there is a statutory obligation on every sheep owner to have all his sheep dipped twice each year. If every sheep owner observed this requirement, sheep scab would be quickly eradicated and I earnestly solicit their co-operation.