§ 50. Sir T. Mooreasked the Minister of Agriculture if he can yet report the result of his negotiations with the Governments of Northern Ireland and Eire to secure their acceptance of suitable regulations governing the export and transit of horses by sea from Ireland.
Mr. T. WilliamsProposals for regulating the transit of horses to this country were sent to the Governments of Northern Ireland and of the Irish Republic, and to the other interests concerned, some weeks ago for their observations. The Government of Northern Ireland has stated that it will consider making an Order on the lines proposed. The Government of the Irish Republic have suggested certain amendments to the proposals and these are being discussed between officials. Certain of the other interests consulted have not yet given their final observations.
My Department will complete the consultations as quickly as possible, but it is necessary to allow a reasonable time for the consideration of the proposals, which are of a comprehensive and detailed character. I am not proposing to amend the existing regulations which govern the transit of cattle by sea from Ireland. These regulations have been in force since 1927 and appear to be satisfactory.