Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I refer to the provision for the control of horses this year. This is an ongoing issue. A substantial problem relating to horses arose in my part of the country during the Christmas period. Has the Minister plans to move the issue forward? There is a stalemate currently. There was a reduction in the number of horses slaughtered last year. Fortunately, it has been a good winter up to now but if the weather deteriorates, this will become a serious issue Has provision been made for that scenario if it arises?

Subheads B3.12 relates to the fallen animal scheme. A farmer who has an animal to dispose of must pay a substantial amount to the knackery? Does he pay the entire cost or does the Department pay a proportion of the cost of the disposal?

Must animals that are injured on farms, for example, those that suffer a leg break be disposed of in certain places or can be disposed of anywhere without going to the knackery?