Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In regard to the Minister's absence, it is hugely important for the Minister for Agriculture and Food to meet the most important man not only in America, but in the world. We are trying to get access to the US market for our beef. That is where the Minister, Deputy Coveney, is today and it is vital he is there. I am quite capable of answering any of the Deputy's questions. That is the reason we have a Minister of State and I will not shirk my responsibility in that regard.

On the Deputy's specific questions, most of the second question arises in the next question from Deputy Martin Ferris.

Up to this time last year, 120,000 cattle were exported. Today, the number is 146,000. There is a misconception out there that no live cattle are being exported. I can send the Deputy information about the countries-----

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