asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will make a full statement regarding the new grading of pigs; if he will clarify the necessity for new grading in the interests of the pig producers in this country; if producers will benefit by a new system of grading; and, if so, in what way.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grading of Pigs.
35.
The recent changes in pig grading standards were necessary in order to bring the weight of Irish bacon sides into line with that of bacon from our principal competitors in the British bacon market. The interests of pig producers here in relation to the changes have been fully safeguarded by the increases in the minimum guaranteed prices for pigs, which came into operation at the beginning of this week. Also, the reduction in the maximum weights for pig grades should tend to discourage smuggling from the Six Counties.