asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is satisfied that the quality of this country's beef cattle will not be interfered with in the search for new breeds of cattle for dairying.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Beef Cattle Quality.
12.
The Danish Red was the only new dairy breed to be introduced in recent years. It was hoped to use the breed for improving the Shorthorn but because of its general lack of suitability to Irish conditions, its use and impact on the quality of Irish cattle has been negligible.
Some strains of Dutch and German Friesian cattle were imported in 1964 and 1971 respectively for trial purposes. Friesian semen from New Zealand and Canada has also been imported recently for a limited comparison trial through the AI service. I am satisfied that the interests of both beef and dairy farmers are being safeguarded in these trial importations.