asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries when the livestock consultative council was formed; when it last met; and the functions it has performed over the past 15 years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Livestock Consultative Council.
36.
The livestock consultative council was formed in 1925, and last met in 1965. At its meetings during the preceding eight years the council considered such items as imports of breeding cattle, sheep and pigs; dehorning of cattle; and the impact of certain disease control measures on the livestock industry.
Why did the body cease to meet in 1965?
I do not really know but I think the very nature of the body made it rather ineffective. When you consider that the board was established about 1925 and held 25 meetings in the ensuing 40 years to 1965, I do not think it could be seriously contended that this was an effective weapon for the promotion of the livestock industry in the country and, therefore, it is reasonable to say that to convene it again to continue with its 26th meeting in the 47th year or so would not be a very sensible thing to do.
I wonder whose fault it was that it was ineffective.
I cannot honestly tell the Deputy.
That is a separate question.
The fact appears to be that it was not much good.