asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will ensure that facilities are readily available in a number of Irish ports for the exportation of livestock at all times; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
46.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Livestock Export Facilities.
45.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will ensure that the facilities for the export of livestock from Waterford port are adequate to meet trade requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 46 together. Portal facilities are at present available to cater for all livestock exports but in regard to a proposal by British Rail to withdraw their Dublin-Holyhead service I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a question by Deputy Crinion on 10th April.
As regards Waterford port, adequate shipping facilities are available but the extent of the lairage facilities there is limited in catering for some larger cattle transport vessels now using the port. Space for extending the lairage facilities on the present site is. I understand, a difficulty.