asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that, as a result of recent storms, hundreds of cattle perished in County Leitrim, and that the shortage of animal feeding stuffs threatens the loss of the remaining live stock in the county; and if he will take steps to remedy the position as speedily as possible.

I am aware that there have been losses of live stock in a number of counties as a result of lack of fodder and of the recent severe weather. There is no means at my disposal of increasing the supply of hay, straw, roots and other feeding stuffs, of which there is such a general shortage at present.

Has the Department made any attempt to secure fodder for districts where it is so badly needed?

I have no means at my disposal of increasing the supply of these commodities.

Has the Minister tried to secure any?

The Minister knows it is impossible, because there is a shortage everywhere.

Where is the Minister to get the fodder from?

Will the Minister make grants available to farmers in various areas of County Wicklow who suffered severe stock losses owing to the bad weather?

The Minister sees no method by which people who suffered these losses can be compensated.

Possibly if a deputation went to see the Minister in connection with this matter he would receive them sympathetically.