Fodder Crisis

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2013

Tuesday, 21 May 2013

Ceisteanna (460)

Patrick O'Donovan

Ceist:

460. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in view of the decision taken by the Shannon Airport Authority to allow farming organisations to cut grass on property owned by it to help alleviate fodder shortages in the local area, if he will ask those agencies, companies, authorities, boards and so on who come within his remit to consider similar initiatives on suitable public lands owned by them in conjunction with representatives of local farming organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23766/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

I wish to advise the Deputy that matters relating to property owned or leased by agencies under the aegis of my Department are an operational matter for the individual agency in the first instance and I have no function in this regard. However, I am aware of the current difficulties in providing fodder for animals and I have brought the issue raised by the Deputy to the attention of the agencies under my aegis.

Question No. 461 withdrawn.