Vol. 530 No. 5
16 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the number of cattle purchased in the destruct scheme to date; the proportion of culled cows involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3866/01]
Up to 9 February 2001, 60,282 cattle had been purchased under the purchase for destruction scheme established by EU Commission Regulation 2777/2000, of which more than 31% were cows. Under the rules of the scheme, animals from all categories, that is, bulls, steers, cows and heifers which are aged over 30 months and which meet the veterinary and other criteria laid down in the regulation, are eligible under the scheme. Having regard to these factors, given that the scheme is a market support measure, I am satisfied with the proportion of cows which has been slaughtered, to date, under the scheme.
