§ Mr. FIELDasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether he is aware that several Irish breeders of pedigree bulls suitable for premiums have been disappointed owing to the absence of the usual February sale; whether it is intended to hold such a sale before April; and whether he is aware that Irish farmers may be obliged to import bulls whilst the market for Irish breeders is unavailable?
§ Mr. T. W. RUSSELLIt is possible that some Irish breeders of pedigree bulls have been disappointed owing to the absence of the usual February sale, but so far no expressions of disappointment have been sent by them to the Department, nor have complaints been made by prospective purchasers on account of the arrangements that have been made. It is not intended to hold a sale in Dublin before the second week in April, although sales of pure bred bulls will be held at Belfast, Londonderry, Sligo, and Cork before that date. There is no reason to believe that there will be any larger number of bulls imported this year than in past seasons. The great majority of the premiums will be held by bulls purchased at Irish sales, as has been the case in past years.