Jack Wall
Ceist:172 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when a directive will be given to allow for the resumption of sheep grazing on the Curragh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15983/01]
Written Answers. - Foot and Mouth Disease.
It was necessary in the context of the overall management of the FMD situation that sheep grazing on the Curragh be suspended at an early stage of the crisis. With a few exceptions, the co-operation of the flock owners was readily forthcoming. Those who had initially resisted the Department's request, made in the overall national interest of ensuring that everything possible was done to minimise the risk of the spread of FMD, eventually took the responsible course of action. It is not yet appropriate to allow normal movement of sheep to resume. I will keep this matter under review on the basis of advice from the expert group and taking account of prevailing circumstances.