Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 Nov 1995

Vol. 458 No. 3

Written Answers. - Brood Mares.

Austin Deasy

Question:

107 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the dissatisfaction being expressed regarding the quality brood mare retention scheme whereby mares over four years of age must have performance points in order to qualify; if he will review the eligibility criteria in view of the fact that the majority of quality brood mares in this country fall into this category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17078/95]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

The purpose of this scheme is to encourage owners of quality young mares to retain them for breeding purposes. Under the conditions of the scheme, introduced this year, all three-year-old mares with recognised pedigree are eligible for inspection, whereas older mares must have documented performance in a recognised discipline. The level of performance required is set out on a scale which increases with age up to 10 years of age.

The criteria laid down are considered necessary in order to target the available funds to achieve the maximum benefit.

The conditions of the scheme are subject to review on an annual basis.