asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the present position regarding the import of birds generally; and if he will give details of such imports in a recent six-month period.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bird Imports.
80.
The importation of birds is prohibited except under licence. Where licences are granted, veterinary conditions are applied as a precaution against the risk of the introduction of serious poultry diseases.
During the six months July to December, 1973, 185 licences were issued for the import of a total of 1,684,640 birds of which all but 640 were domestic poultry. The poultry originated entirely in Northern Ireland and were imported before the outbreak of Newcastle Disease there in November, 1973. The remaining 640 birds comprised 460 cage birds, 140 wild-fowl and 40 racing pigeons.
Might I ask the Minister whether in present circumstances it is possible to get a licence to import mallard duck eggs from the Six Counties?
I have not got the answer to that, but I will let the Deputy know. I would say that it is very doubtful.
Since the birds in question are wild birds and recognise no Border, what protection does the non-grant of such licences give to our poultry stocks on this side of the Border? They can cross themselves without assistance.