§ 27. Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked what steps are being taken at Wexford, Dublin, or elsewhere in Ireland to establish and develop an extensive dead meat trade between Ireland and Great Britain; and what number of cattle and sheep are now being slaughtered in Irish abattoirs for the export of their carcases to British ports?
§ Mr. BIRRELLSocieties for the carrying on of an export meat trade with Great Britain have been formed at Drogheda, Wexford, and Athy. The trade has been in progress for some time at Wexford and Drogheda. The erection of an abattoir at Athy is about to be commenced, and one has already been erected at Mullingar. The intention to promote a co-operative company to conduct an export meat trade on a large scale at Dublin has been announced. The erection of abattoirs for the purpose at Cork and Waterford is at present being considered by local authorities and others interested in the trade. The Department aid the promoters of such undertakings in approved cases by providing them with technical instruction, and in some instances with loans towards part of the cost of erecting an abattoir. The number of cattle and sheep now being slaughtered in Irish abattoirs for export to Great Britain cannot be stated.
§ Mr. STANIERCan the right hon. Gentleman say how much these loans are which have been granted?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo. I will inquire from the Department.
§ Mr. FFRENCHIn the case of Wexford is the loan nothing at all?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI think that is quite likely.