asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of a report (details supplied) to the effect that Ireland's cattle export trade may be seriously curtailed by the withdrawal of facilities by the two largest shipping companies concerned; if he will state what measures his Department have taken to avert such a situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Exports.
32.
I have seen the statement referred to by the Deputy and would refer him to my reply to a previous Dáil question on this subject on 30th November, 1971. As I then stated the Irish Livestock Transport Company, on which the cattle trade, the B and I and British Rail are represented, have informed me that their cattle ships and lairages are expected to meet all demands on them up to 1980. I am, therefore, not aware of any cause for concern as regards adequacy of facilities for the shipment of cattle by these shipping companies.
As far as the Glasgow route is concerned the shipping company involved is a private company. The future of the existing service on that route is a matter for negotiation between the shipping company and the cattle trade.