Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 May 1990

Vol. 398 No. 4

Written Answers. - Supply of Semen.

Phil Hogan

Question:

81 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties of the Irish Ayrshire Cattle Breeders' Society and the Dublin District Milk Board in respect of the supply of semen; the arrangements which he can make to have fresh supplies ordered without delay for the 1990 breeding season; if he will resolve any difficulties which exist between the Dublin District Milk Board and the Irish Ayrshire Cattle Breeders' Society; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. O'Kennedy)

I am not aware of any ongoing difficulties between the Ayrshire Cattle Breeders' Society and the Dublin District Milk Board. In fact, I am informed that relations between the two organisations are excellent and that the board make every effort to satisfy the needs of Ayrshire breeders in the supply of semen. There were, I understand, a number of occasions recently when the board's supply was low due to unprecedented demand but additional supplies were quickly obtained from other AI stations.

Imports of Ayrshire semen by the board are promptly facilitated by my Department.