asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether he has any plans to encourage farmers to breed maiden heifers rather than the present undesirable situation when most of them are being slaughtered.

Heifer slaughterings are down by 18 per cent or 12,000 so far this year. While these statistics would indicate that farmers are retaining heifers for breeding rather than slaughter, nevertheless, the question of further encouraging farmers to do so is being considered by my Department at present in the context of an urgent review of possible ways and means to increase the national cow herd within the constraints imposed by Exchequer and EC requirements.

I have to agree with the Minister that the responsibility for the drop in numbers lies with the previous administration. However, I would like to have an assurance from the Minister that he will not fall into the same trap because numbers have not been as low since 1973.

The Deputy is making a bad start.

I should like to assure the Deputy that I share his concern. He will be encouraged by the fact that the number of heifer slaughterings is down 18 per cent. This is a priority with us. The Deputy will be encouraged when the correct figure for heifer and cow slaughterings is issued. I should like to tell him that there has been a significant increase in inseminations in the first six months of this year. That indicates that farmers are getting the message. With others I have been constantly highlighting this matter and I am glad to be able to report that we are laying the basis for maintaining and increasing the herd. Any action that is open to me, subject to EC restriction, will be taken.