asked the Minister for Agriculture if his attention was directed to the fall in the cattle population; and whether he is aware that almost two-thirds of the cattle exported in recent months were cows; and whether, in these circumstances, he will take steps to prevent the further depopulation of our cattle population by instituting an embargo against the export of breeding cows.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fall in Cattle Population.
According to the official statistics the total number of cattle in the country in June, 1942, represented a decrease of only 1.4 per cent. on the corresponding figure for June, 1941.
Of the total number of cattle exported in September and October of this year, including exports across the Border, only 12.2 per cent. were milch cows and springers.
The export of dairy stock is controlled and substantially reduced numbers have been allowed out since the beginning of November.