asked the Minister for Agriculture if his Department has investigated the large number of deaths which have occurred among cattle, and mainly among young cattle, in County Louth in the last six or seven weeks, and if he is in a position to make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Louth Cattle Mortality.
Reports of deaths in recent weeks amongst young cattle have reached my Department from several counties including County Louth. The mortality is believed to be due to parasitic infestation coupled with a low level of nutrition, aggravated by the poor grazing conditions of recent months. Veterinary officers of the Department are at present actively engaged in investigating the problem and when this investigation is completed I will issue a statement.
In the meantime, I urge upon stock owners throughout the country the importance of good grass through the user of adequate quantities of phosphates, potash and lime particularly in the winter and spring months and of adequate dosage with worm treatments recommended by my Department.