HC Deb 23 May 1906 vol 157 cc1292-3
MR. THOMAS O'DONNELL

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland if he is aware that there are nearly twelve millions of horses, cattle, sheep, and pigs in Ireland, value for about £80,000,000; that at present Ireland is freer from contagious disease amongst its livestock than any other country in the world; that the animal trade is the most beneficial industry Ireland possesses, seeing that it is distributed amongst all localities and classes; that the whole country appreciates the work of the veterinary department, which it is believed could be extended and improved; and, seeing that the Committee-appointed to inquire into the workings, of the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction only commences its. labours in Ireland on the 29th inst., will he reconsider his decision, and add an independent member of the veterinary profession to the Commission.

MR. BRYCE

I beg to refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to his similar Question on the 2nd instant† It is not considered necessary or desirable to increase the numbers of the Committee.

† See (4) Debates, clvi.,.373.