asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries whether he is aware that there is a shortage of inseminators employed by the Dairy Disposal Company at Castleisland, County Kerry; and what proposals there are to increase the staff concerned to the level necessary for requirements.

I am not aware that the inseminator staff employed at the Castleisland AI station is or has been at any time inadequate to provide a satisfactory service.

As recently as two weeks ago I was informed by the farming community of that area that there is a shortage of inseminators there.

The Deputy no doubt is aware that there are inseminators on loan to the Department of Agriculture. They can be recalled at any time if the Dairy Disposal Company decide there is a demand for their services in that area.

In the light of Deputy Connor's question, would it not be reasonable for the Parliamentary Secretary to ask the Dairy Disposal Company if they have received complaints from the local people about inadequate supply and, if so, to remind them that they have inseminators on loan to the Department and that if they want a couple of them back, to let the Parliamentary Secretary or the Minister know?

I appreciate the Deputy's remarks. The Dairy Disposal Company were asked about the matter and said there was no demand. They still have these eight people whom they can recall.