§ 38. Mr. FFRENCHasked if there is an increasingly prevalent and fatal disease amongst cattle, sheep, and goats in England known as Johne's disease; what is the nature of it; and if the Irish Department propose to take any steps to prevent its importation into Ireland?
§ Mr. RUSSELLThe Department understand that the disease referred to exists in England. It occurs mostly in cattle. It is caused by a micro-organism, and is manifested principally by the wasting of the animal and bowel affection. No cattle can be imported into Ireland except with a permit from the Department, which is not granted in the absence of satisfactory evidence as to the health of the animals. In these circumstances it does not appear that any further special measures are necessary.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that this disease cannot be accurately diagnosed until after the animal has been slaughtered and a postmortem examination has taken place?
§ Mr. RUSSELLIf the hon. Gentleman wants any information of that kind, perhaps he will put a question down.