asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has any plans to restrict the export of live cattle; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Under EEC rules it is not possible to impose restrictions on exports of live cattle. As regards the shortfall in supplies of cattle to meat factories, it is a priority aim of the Government to bring about a significant expansion in cattle production, and in this connection I am seeking special assistance from the EEC. Efforts are also continuing to secure improved EEC refunds for exports of boneless beef to third countries.

Could the Minister give us some details of the negotiations he is having with the EEC as there is a great deal of urgency about this matter? A large number of jobs are in jeopardy in Waterford, Midleton and other places?

I met the chief executive of Clover Meats yesterday in connection with their problems and I assure the Deputy that I am keeping in touch with these matters. Next Monday and Tuesday there will be meetings of heads of State in Brussels. Following that there will be a meeting of the Agricultural Council on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Following that there will be a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on Saturday and, perhaps, on Sunday. As a result of these three meetings I hope some progress will be made.

Does the Minister envisage that funds will be available from national sources to supplement anything he can get from Brussels towards increasing our herd? If so, could he give us any indication of the amount of such a fund?

That is a separate question. At present I am concentrating, and will be for the next ten days, on our negotiations within the EEC framework.

Does that indicate that funds will not be available——

It does not indicate anything. I am answering the question relating to the EEC position.