Vol. 416 No. 6
403 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will give details of (1) the number of cattle in respect of which a beef premium was applied for in (a) 1990 and (b) 1991, (2) the numbers which were (i) accepted, (ii) disqualified; and if he will outline the rate at which the premium is being paid in respect of eligible animals.
Global statistics are not readily available on the numbers of cattle in respect of which special beef premium was claimed in 1990 and 1991 or on the numbers disqualified from payment. The numbers on which premium has been paid to date for the two years are 954,000 and 551,000, respectively. Some cases in 1990 were paid at 80 per cent of the normal rate for failure to keep animals for the minimum retention period of two months. Some 1991 cases will be also paid at 80 per cent of the normal rate for irregularities in applications.
