asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware of the serious increase in the incidence of warble fly infestation of bovine hides; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
25.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Warble Fly Eradication.
24.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will introduce a compulsory state subsidised scheme for dressing all cattle in order to combat the increased incidence of warble fly infestation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 25 together.
I am aware that there has been an increase in the incidence of warble fly infestation this year. For statements in the matter generally, including the proposal for a further national dressing campaign, I would refer the Deputy to replies given by me to questions on 17th and 18th June by Deputies O'Sullivan and Bruton, respectively.
26.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will state the approximate loss of value of a prime ox hide which is infested with warble flies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The loss of value varies with the extent of warble damage. I am informed that it ranges from about 10s to about 21s in the case of a prime ox hide.