Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Mar 2001

Vol. 532 No. 4

Written Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.

John McGuinness

Question:

219 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his Department will arrange a compensation package of benefits for those who will have to sign-on short-term due to the foot and mouth scare resulting in particular in the suspension of the marts and the short-term lay off of employees; if the circumstances of each case can be examined in order that as little hardship as possible is caused; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7464/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh):

It is not my intention to make such a package available. The temporary measures I have taken against foot and mouth disease are intended to prevent a longer term economic crisis in the agricultural sector and in other sectors which would result in further and more prolonged hardship for employees in marts and elsewhere.