asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries what effect on Irish cattle exports the proposal to increase British rail charges by 5 per cent will have; if he has had discussions on this matter and, if so, with what results; if the standard of efficiency of the British services can be improved to meet the needs of Irish exporters; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increased British Rail Charges.
36.
An increase of 5 per cent in the rates charged by British Railways for the carriage of cattle became effective on 13th August last and has resulted in increases of from about 1/6d to about 3/6d per head in the transport costs for Irish cattle exported to Britain. There had been prior discussion of the matter between representatives of British Railways and of the livestock exporters, in which my Department also participated but I regret that British Railways felt unable to accept the arguments put forward against increasing the rates.
My Department maintains close contact with the companies engaged in the transport of Irish cattle to ports and inland centres in Britain and will continue to impress on these companies the importance of providing satisfactory transport facilities at the lowest possible cost for this vital export trade.