asked the Minister for Agriculture the steps he intends to take to preclude the illegal exportation of live cattle which is currently having a very damaging effect on employment in the meat processing industry.
222.
Written Answers. - Illegal Cattle Exportation.
221.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will take action to stop the illegal export of cattle to Northern Ireland; and if he will outline his proposals in this regard.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 222 together.
While cattle smuggling has been a problem in the past, it has been considerably curtailed in recent months. Consultation between my Department, the Revenue Commissioners, the United Kingdom Authorities and the EEC Commission led to the intensification of control measures at certain key points in Northern Ireland. I intend to see that sustained efforts are continued to prevent any illegal trade in cattle.