Dáil Éireann - Volume 272 - 01 May, 1974

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Draught Mares.

Mr. Daly Mr. Daly

12. Mr. Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will increase substantially the nomination premium in respect of Irish draught mares.

Mr. Daly Mr. Daly

13. Mr. Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will increase substantially the grants being paid in respect of foals of Irish draught mares.

Mr. Clinton Mr. Clinton

Mr. Clinton: With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 13 together. The answer to each of these questions is in the negative in so far as this year's schemes are concerned.

Mr. Daly Mr. Daly

Mr. Daly: Would the Minister not agree that the grants are unrealistic, that it is a long time since there have been any increases in the amounts payable and would he consider improving the situation this year?

Mr. Clinton Mr. Clinton

Mr. Clinton: Perhaps the Deputy is aware that there have been very substantial increases in the number of nominations and, consequently, in the amount of money allocated to these grants, in recent years?

Mr. Daly Mr. Daly

Mr. Daly: There may have been an increase in the number of applicants but not in the amounts payable.

Mr. Clinton Mr. Clinton

Mr. Clinton: Not in individual payments but the overall cost has increased substantially.

Mr. Daly Mr. Daly

Mr. Daly: The grant has not increased.

Mr. Clinton Mr. Clinton

Mr. Clinton: The value of the horses has increased substantially.

Mr. Crowley Mr. Crowley

Mr. Crowley: Some of them.

Mr. Clinton Mr. Clinton

Mr. Clinton: If they are any good.

Dáil Éireann 272 Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. Draught Mares.

Questions

19740501