Vol. 483 No. 6
183 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the discussions, if any, he has had with Teagasc in order that the Moorepark research programme will continue as planned after the slaughter of 563 animals as a result of a BSE diagnosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21097/97]
I understand from Teagasc that it is currently involved in the selection and purchase of replacement animals. Rigorous selection procedures will be applied to ensure that disease risks are minimised. The nature and extent of changes in planned research programmes arising from the incident is a matter for the Teagasc authority and would not normally be the subject of discussions with my Department.
