Paul Connaughton
Question:246 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will financially help the livestock marts by way of a substantial reduction in the rate demand by local authorities; his views on the fact that it was the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development who demanded the closure of the marts during the foot and mouth scare; if his attention has been drawn to the huge loss of revenue by all marts; if his attention has further been drawn to the poor financial position that many such livestock marts find themselves in; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26214/01]