asked the Minister for Agriculture in view of the calls from beef exporters and agriculture experts urging the immediate introduction of the £70 suckler cow grant over the entire country to encourage expansion in the cattle sector, if he considers it appropriate to extend the scheme.
Written Answers. - Suckler Cow Production.
621.
As the increase from £32 to £70 in the grant for beef cows in the disadvantaged areas is subject to clearance by the EC and as herdowners require adequate notice to expand numbers, it is proposed to introduce the new rate next year. Under EC rules this grant may not be paid outside the disadvantaged areas.
622.
asked the Minister for Agriculture in view of the fact that the development of suckler production is one of the few areas of expansion open to farmers in the western areas, if he considers that the Government, together with the agricultural advisory service should encourage this enterprise; and, in this regard, if he considers that ACOT should devise simple management systems outlining the basic financial facts and figures.
My Department are currently in consultation with An Foras Talúntais and ACOT regarding the encouragement of more efficient cattle production including suckler systems. While the content and implementation of advisory programmes are matters for ACOT, I understand that emphasis is placed, especially in disadvantaged areas, on simple, low cost systems with satisfactory profit margins.