Vol. 330 No. 12
asked the Minister for Agriculture if his attention has been drawn to the very large number of farmers for every agricultural instructor in County Galway which compares unfavourable with many other places in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
613.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will make the necessary orders to provide extra agricultural instructors in County Galway in order to ensure the same ratio of farmers to agricultural instructors as in other counties, e.g. County Meath.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos 612 and 613 together.
I am aware of the ratio of farmers to agricultural instructors in County Galway. However, the operation of the agricultural advisory service nationally is the responsibility of An Chomhairle Oiliúna Talmhaíochta and the deployment of its staff is entirely a matter for that body.
