asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will arrange to have a detailed survey carried out among the sheep farmers of County Galway with a view to ascertaining (a) the breed of sheep reared over a period of three years and (b) the income derived by the farmers for the various strains of sheep, so as to help farmers in reaching a decision as to the most economic breed which they should develop to meet export marketing conditions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Sheep Rearing Survey.
48.
A survey designed to obtain factual information on sheep production in certain western areas, including such aspects as breed suitability for wool and carcase production, has been under consideration by An Foras Talúntais and my Department with a view to taking whatever action may be appropriate in the matter.
Would the Minister not agree that it is extremely difficult for the Department of Agriculture to formulate a general agricultural policy applicable to all parts of the country because of the vast differences in the fertility of the land and the methods of cultivation? Would he not agree that the setting up of a system such as that suggested here would be advisable and worthy of consideration? I have no doubt the Minister will agree that what applies in Wexford or Tipperary does not apply in the west of Ireland or in west Cork?
An Foras Talúntais, in co-operation with the Department, are organising a detailed survey of flocks in the western counties. Apparently they are concentrating there. There will be a comprehensive survey embracing all aspects of sheep production.
Would the Minister state whether or not he agrees with the idea of establishing a sheep survey, so far as agriculture is concerned?
That arises on another question. County Committees of Agriculture all over the country are also encouraged to partake in a land survey in regard to this matter.