asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the current high level of slaughter of breeding stock due to the substantial fall in farm prices this year and of the high level of cattle destocking generally; and the steps he proposes to take to prevent a further drop in cattle numbers.
Written Answers. - Cattle Numbers.
109.
While cow slaughterings are at a higher level than last year, this is due to a number of factors. Apart from the normal cullings which always constitute a significant part of cow slaughterings, the number this year is inflated as a result of the intensified disease eradication programme, especially for brucellosis.
The Government have of course already introduced a range of measures to help farmers over their difficulties and for details of these I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a question on 4 November.