Vol. 451 No. 2
18 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to concerns that harmful substances may have been deposited on pasture land following the recent flooding; if his attention has further been drawn to the danger to cattle from such harmful substances; the proposals, if any, he has to give assistance to farmers whose land may have been contaminated in this manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6351/95]
Vigilance on the part of farmers post-flood is necessary and any materials that may damage their land should be removed and carefully disposed of. Local Teagasc advisers are available to advise farmers who may be in doubt about damage to their land. A veterinary practitioner should be consulted if any livestock are suspected of ingesting harmful substances.
I recently introduced a flood damage relief scheme covering livestock, fodder and grazing losses which assists farmers whose land may have been affected by flooding.
