asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that non-nationals have a virtual monopoly in the shipping of live cattle to the continent, that they control purchasing contracts for Irish cattle and that up to £25 or £30 is being charged per head of cattle shipped; if he will hold a public inquiry into the matter in view of the growing fears of cattle exporters; and if he will take steps to end this monopoly.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Livestock Shipping Services.
52.
I am aware that there are no scheduled livestock shipping services to the Continent and that the shipping arrangements are, therefore, a matter for negotiation between cattle exporters and ship-owners. I have no information to justify considering an inquiry into any alleged monopoly in the latter connection.
The cattle exporters' organisations and CBF would no doubt make every effort to help in locating any suitable shipping facilities available.
Does the Minister not consider that a shipping charge of £25 or £30 per head of cattle is a most unreasonable charge? Is the Minister concerned with the fact that there is a monopoly in existence and being developed for the shipment of cattle? Has his Department investigated the possibility of setting up their own shipping services to the Continent so that the prices will be reasonable and there will be guaranteed shipping available in view of the importance of our cattle exports in the EEC?
I am not aware that the prices quoted by the Deputy are based on fact. I have not heard of this export cost being imposed on cattle being exported. If it were, I would wonder immediately how it was that the sellers of the cattle choose to carry this extra cost instead of selling their cattle profitably. As the Deputy is aware, cattle prices have never been higher in the history of the State. I am not aware either that there is anything approaching a monopolistic situation in the live cattle shipping business. A great many people make their own arrangements for the export of cattle to specific ports abroad.