Vol. 485 No. 4
59 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the total number of prosecutions taken over the past five years for the use of angel dust or other illegal growth promoters; the number of convictions secured in this regard; the number of farmers who have been excluded from various bovine headage and premium schemes as a result of these convictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23204/97]
There have been 139 prosecutions for offences relating to illegal growth promoters since the beginning of 1992. Convictions were secured in all but 11 of these cases. Under provisions in force since 1 July 1996, 16 farmers have been excluded from bovine headage and premium schemes as a result of irregularities in relation to illegal use of animal remedies. Notwithstanding the dramatic improvement which has been achieved in this area, as a result of the vigorous enforcement measures taken by my Department over the past number of years, I am committed to ensuring that such measures will continue and that any offenders identified will continue to face the full rigours of the law.
