Vol. 305 No. 8
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, due to the large sheep losses in the mountain areas of County Waterford, particularly in the Nire Valley area, in the recent snow storm, he will consider a system of compensation or interest-free loans, as was granted when such a disaster occurred before.
11.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the serious financial loss suffered by hill sheep producers in County Waterford due to snowstorms, he will have inquiries made into the losses sustained with a view to compensating the hill farmers involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 11 together. I have now received details compiled by the chief agricultural officer, of the nature and extent of the sheep losses which occurred. When these have been examined, I will consider what action if any might be appropriate.
