§ MR. LARDNER (Monaghan, N.)To ask the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he is aware of the increase of foul brood among bees; and if he will state what steps he intends to take, by legislation or otherwise, to save an industry which is now a growing and valuable asset to the Irish farmer, particularly in mountain districts.
(Answered by Mr. T. W. Russell.) The Department are aware of the existence of foul brood in many parts of Ireland, but have no information to show that it is increasing. County committees of agriculture have been empowered by the Department to deal with the disease and to grant compensation for destruction of infected hives. The Department are considering legislation to enable local authorities to deal compulsorily with the disease.