asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that the ship "Innisfallen" which sailed from the North Wall on the night of the 19th November with a cargo of 519 cattle destined for Birkenhead was, for reasons which have not been divulged, forced to return to Dublin with her cargo on the following day; whether he has had inquiries made in the matter, and if he will consider the question of compensation to the owners of the cattle for the loss incurred.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Delay in Cross-Channel Transport.
I am aware that the vessel mentioned which left Dublin with a cargo of cattle on the 19th November returned with the cargo to Dublin. I am informed that the question of compensation to the owners of the cattle has been dealt with by the Exported Live Stock (Insurance) Board set up under the Exported Live Stock (Insurance) Act, 1940.
Would the Minister not think the British Government responsible, as before that boat sailed we were told that it would be quite safe to land at Birkenhead, and when they got there they were sent back?
That is a very big question. The British Government may have found it necessary to change the instructions before the boat got across.
Would the people on the other side reimburse us for compensation paid on this side?
I do not know.