asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the number of bull calves and weanlings exported in 1975; and the countries to which they are exported.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bull Calf and Weanling Exports.
21.
It is estimated that in the period January to September, 1975, about 47,000 bull calves and some 28,000 feeder bulls were exported, almost all to Italy. Heifer calf exports during this period were negligible.
That is an important statement the Minister has made. I always heard that the export of bull calves should be there. Heifer calves have not been exported, and that should be made very clear.
All the Deputy's colleagues do not hold the same view.
Would the Minister not agree that the present trend points to a rapid running down of the cow population, that now would be the time to give incentives to prevent that continuing?
I do not agree at all.