asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the number of cattle inseminated in 1973 and 1974.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Insemination.
120.
The number of cattle inseminated in 1973 was 1,194,190. The number of cattle inseminated in the period January to September, 1974—the most recent period for which published figures are available—was 927,353.
121.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the steps he proposes to take to reverse the trend in artificial inseminations from the beef breeds to dairy breeds.
Inseminations by bulls of the dairy breeds represent nearly 60 per cent of total inseminations. This is more than adequate to ensure that cow numbers will be maintained and increased if necessary.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of a report which appeared recently to the effect that there was a movement to the beef breed rather than the milk breed? Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the serious consequences that would have on milk producers, many of whom are purchasing replacements?
As I indicated in my reply, insemination by bulls of the dairy breed is nearly 60 per cent of the total inseminations. This means that the beef breeds are 40 per cent.
Did the Parliamentary Secretary see the report I have mentioned?
No.
The Parliamentary Secretary should examine this report which emanated from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Is much semen being exported at present?
That is a separate question.