Written answers

Thursday, 26 November 2009

Department of Agriculture and Food

Suckler Welfare Scheme

5:00 pm

Photo of Bernard AllenBernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 34: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the reported decline in the suckler cow herd; his plans for the future of the suckler cow welfare scheme in this context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43551/09]

Photo of Brendan SmithBrendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The suckler welfare scheme has been very successful in helping to underpin the beef sector in Ireland since its inception in January 2008. Over 50,000 farmers are now in the scheme. Animal events information and breeding data is now being collected on over 85% of the national beef herd. This is a significant achievement by any standard. Apart altogether from the benefits of the scheme in terms of animal welfare improvements, the huge volume of breeding data now being collected will have a major impact on the rate of genetic gain in the suckler herd in the years to come.

The suckler welfare scheme is 100% funded by the Exchequer. The continuation of the scheme and the level of funding to be provided is a budgetary matter and will be considered in the context of the forthcoming 2010 Budget and my Department's Estimates provision.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.