asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that many farmers and agricultural workers residing in the mountain areas of County Waterford sustained serious loss through their sheep having been smothered during the recent heavy snowstorm; if there is any fund available in his Department to provide compensation for those affected, and, if so, if steps will be taken to assess the amount of the loss sustained with a view to the payment of compensation, and, if not, if he will take steps to provide a grant-in-aid for the purpose.

I am aware that losses of sheep have occurred in consequence of a recent snowstorm, but there are no funds at my disposal out of which compensation can be paid to the owners. Losses of sheep from this and other causes frequently occur, and I see no reason why in this instance the Government should undertake to compensate the owners.