asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if, in view of the exceptionally low percentage of cows recorded under a milk recording system in the State as compared with many other countries and having regard to the increasingly critical references by dairying experts in the cattle breeding stations and farming organisations, it is proposed to institute a statutory milk recording service; and if he will make a statement to the effect that the absence of such a system is seriously inhibiting the research work of all who are endeavouring to improve breeding production and other techniques in this country's very valuable dairying industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Milk Recording Service.
23.
I agree that the percentage of cows which are milk recorded here is low compared to other countries involved in the dairy industry. I am not satisfied, however, that a statutory milk recording service as proposed by the Deputy, which would presumably involve compulsory recording, would effect any improvement. Such a service has not, so far as I am aware, been tried in any other country.
Our milk recording schemes were reorganised in recent years. They are now on a satisfactory basis and the only requirement is increased participation, which my Department are constantly urging on herd-owners.