asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the steps being taken by his Department to ensure that the current demand for thoroughbred stallions is met: and if he will estimate the current number of applications which are not being met.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Thoroughbred Stallions.
20.
Thoroughbred stallions are leased by my Department to farmers in areas where they are needed for hunter breeding. At present there are 47 stallions on lease as compared with 29 in 1964. A further 60 stallions would be needed to meet all the applications received in 1969. I am satisfied however that such large numbers are not required having regard to the number of mares to be served and the number of privately-owned stallions available. In any event, as the number of suitable stallions on offer each year is very limited, it would not be possible to meet all the demands.