Paul McGrath
Ceist:46 Mr P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the declining efficiency in sow output and litter size; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20689/02]
Written Answers. - Pigmeat Sector.
Teagasc figures indicate that the level of improvement in sow output and litter size in Ireland has not kept pace with that in many other EU countries. This has been attributed to a combination of a fall-off in trained staff available for piggeries and a deterioration in the fabric of many sow units. After Christmas, the Teagasc pig service will launch a series of workshops, targeted at staff working in key areas who have had no formal training, to help address this situation. They will also serve as refresher courses for more experienced trained staff and will be aimed at achieving greater efficiencies at primary production level.