asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has received an application for a licence to slaughter horses for export; and if he proposes to grant it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Horse Slaughter Licence.
Minister for Agriculture (Mr. Moylan)
A number of applications for licences for the export of horse flesh have been received in my Department. The whole matter, which is very complicated, is under consideration and I am not yet in a position to indicate my decision on these applications.
Could the Minister give any general idea as to when a decision in the matter is likely to be arrived at?
Mr. Moylan
I do not think I can give the Deputy any definite answer in the matter.
As there are certain commercial interests concerned and potential employment if the decision is favourable, is it likely that the decision will be arrived at, say, within the next three months?
Mr. Moylan
I am afraid I could not answer.
May I ask the Minister when I may put a question to him which he would hope to be able to answer in a manner that would give a definite date on which a decision would be arrived at?
Mr. Moylan
I do not know.
I hope the Minister has not abdicated.