Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
443. Deputy Michael Harty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to a marked increase in the number of cattle dying in County Clare, mainly of diseases related to being housed too long due to the fodder crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17628/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraDefinitive National or regional figures for cattle deaths for the first quarter of 2018 are not yet available, and when available will need to be assessed in the context of the overall increase in the cattle population. A number of factors can lead to an increase in on farm livestock mortality. These factors can include disease issues, as well as stress factors that indirectly lead to decreased immunity and hence increased susceptibility to disease. When definitive figures for the first quarter of 2018 are available, my Department will be in a better position to draw some conclusions as regards the regional and national impact of the recent weather events and fodder shortages on livestock mortality figures.
