asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the widespread and critical hardship being caused to practically every small farmer in the north County Longford area and the fact that their very existence is now being threatened, by rampant animal disease, he will declare it "a disaster area" that requires immediate financial aid from his Department including payments of headage and all other animal grants where appropriate and full market value for all herds being decimated; and if he will liaise with the Minister for Social Welfare, to have all small farmer income supplement restored immediately to those in that area, where many are now poverty stricken and where there is no alternative means of living.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - County Longford Animal Disease.
719.
There is an extensive outbreak of bovine TB in four district electoral divisions of north Longford and my Department's local district veterinary office is taking all necessary steps to deal with the situation. While the outbreak is a matter of some concern, there can be no question of providing special financial measures in this particular area. I have, however, arranged that payment of grants to farmers in the area will be expedited.
My Department has already been in touch with the Department of Social Welfare which, I understand, is looking into the matter.