asked the Minister for Agriculture the number of cattle and sheep tamper proof marking tags imported in 1981, 1982 and 1983; the reason these tags are not being purchased from a firm (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Animal Marking Tags.
547.
A number of different types of animal ear tags are available on the commercial market which are used by farmers to identify animals for their own purposes. These tags are supplied by private firms and I do not have statistics on the quantities imported.
The following are the details of animal identify ear tags imported for use under my Department's schemes:
|
1981 |
1982 |
1983 |
|
|
1. Disease Eradication Schemes |
2.8 million |
2.0 million |
2.8 million |
|
2. Calf Premium Scheme |
— |
0.9 million |
1.9 million |
The firm named did not receive the 1982-83 Calf Scheme or 1983-84 Calf Scheme contract to manufacture these ear tags because it could not guarantee delivery of the required numbers in time for use by farmers.
In the case of the Disease Eradication Schemes, tags required are being purchased abroad as to date no Irish manufactured article has been produced which fully meets my Department's technical specifications.