asked the Minister for Agriculture why imports of animal feeds have increased by 30 per cent in value in the first 11 months of 1978 over 1977; and the extent to which these imports could be replaced by Irish products.
Written Answers. - Animal Feeds.
164.
The increase referred to was caused mainly by a higher volume of imports in response to increased demand for the products in question. In broad nutritional terms the products can be classified as sources of protein which are not available in this country and sources of energy which could be supplied by Irish products. Approximately half of the increase can be attributed to each category.
165.
asked the Minister for Agriculture why exports of animal feeds have dropped by 12½ per cent in value in the first 11 months of 1978 over 1977.
The decrease referred to was caused mainly by a fall in the volume of exports of calf milk replacer to the United Kingdom resulting from a drop in the demand for this product on that market during the period in question.