Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 3

Written Answers. - Fodder Relief Scheme.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

194 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, he has to introduce a fodder aid package for registered Irish draught horses, sport horses and Connemara ponies in view of the cost of rearing registered horses due to the fodder crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7677/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

It is not intended to introduce a fodder aid package for horses and ponies. The 1999 fodder scheme is confined to cattle and sheep farmers who suffered the most hardship due to fodder shortages. The funds available under the scheme are targeted at farmers most in need.