Vol. 542 No. 5
189 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the livestock numbers for all cattle; the number due to be slaughtered from October to December 2001; if he has satisfied himself that there are sufficient markets to ensure satisfactory prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24803/01]
The June 2001 census shows a total cattle population of 7.5 million head. It is estimated that approximately 400,000 cattle will be slaughtered in the October to December period this year. I am satisfied that the level of demand likely from the market, underpinned by the very real support offered by the special purchase scheme and by intervention, will be sufficient to ensure satisfactory prices for Irish beef producers.
