Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Carcase Horse.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in relation to the export of carcase horse, he will state whether he has received any further information which would alter the attitude expressed by him on 25th October, and whether he is now satisfied that this matter should be further examined.
Comment on this
As regards the first part of the question, the Irish Fresh Meat Exporters' Society Ltd., and the Beef Canners' Advisory Association recently wrote to me suggesting that if it were proposed to export horse flesh they would have no objection provided that certain conditions were fulfilled. In 1952, the trade organisation, which was then known as the Irish Fresh Meat Exporters' Committee, adopted a resolution supporting the prohibition on exports of horse flesh. The attention of the society has been drawn to this resolution and they have been asked whether they now favour the granting of facilities for the export of horse flesh.
As regards the second part of the question, I indicated in connection with questions by the Deputy on 25th October that this matter is kept under constant and careful review.
Comment on this
Will the Minister say whether he has received the views of various organisations of farming interests in this country on this subject?
Comment on this
Is it a fact that now quite a number of organisations have expressed the view that they would like that this matter would be more thoroughly investigated and that they are now satisfied that, in fact, no injury would come to the beef trade if this industry were started here?
Comment on this
I am not aware of the organisations to which the Deputy refers. I would be very glad if he would direct my attention to any resolution he has in mind but so far as I have information in regard to this matter I have supplied it to him.
Comment on this
Is it not a fact that we shall probably need all the working horses we have in the country for a long time to come?
