54 Mr. M. Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if the Exchequer will cover all the costs of computerising the national cattle herd which is a prerequisite to introducing a comprehensive beef assurance scheme. [10739/97]

We are at present at the planning stages of a computerised bovine animal traceability system. It will be some time yet before all the elements of the system have been determined and the detailed costs worked out. When this has been completed and following consultation with those involved in the livestock industry, decisions will be taken on the extent of Exchequer involvement in meeting the costs. The Deputy will however be aware that a sum of £4 million has been included in my Department's vote for 1997 for the development of a computerised bovine traceability system.