Michael Ring
Question:232 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when cattle cards will be released to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [15231/03]
Written Answers. - Animal Identification Scheme.
As the Deputy will be aware, there is an industrial dispute in the district veterinary office concerned. I regret that the dispute is inconveniencing farmers such as the person indicated. However, I can assure the Deputy that I most anxious to have the dispute resolved, so as to restore as quickly as possible the Department's normal service to farmers in the areas concerned. Contacts are continuing with the relevant union.
Michael Ring
Question:233 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when cattle cards will be released to a person (details supplied) in County Sligo, in view of the fact that their cattle were due their second tuberculosis test on 8 April 2003. [15232/03]
I understand that the person referred to has a herd number in an area covered by one of the district veterinary offices affected by the current industrial action taken by certain clerical staff. I regret that this dispute is inconveniencing farmers such as the person referred to. However, I can assure the Deputy that I am most anxious to have the dispute resolved as quickly as possible so as to restore the Department's normal service to farmers in the areas concerned.