asked the Minister for Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to reports that men are being paid to tend Irish cattle on boats going to Continental ports although, in fact, these men do not travel at all; and if, in view of the fact that such practice results in an unnecessary increase in transport costs, with resultant increased prices for our cattle exports, he has investigated the matter, and, if so, with what result.

I am quite aware of the very unsatisfactory position in this matter, and I am hopeful that negotiations which have recently been initiated between the shipping companies and the union will have a satisfactory outcome.