I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, and 51, together.
Eighty-five per cent of the total number of creameries and cream-separating stations have so far agreed to participate in the creamery milk quality grading scheme. As the scheme only came into operation on 1st May and is operated on a monthly basis, it will not be possible until returns are received after the end of this month to state precisely the percentage of creamery milk suppliers who have qualified for the additional payment of 1d per gallon. Preliminary indications, however, would appear to be that more than 50 per cent of the total samples tested in the first half of May reached premium standard.
As the purpose of the scheme is to improve the quality of milk, I do not think it would be desirable to reduce from three to two the number of satisfactory milk tests which would qualify the milk supplier for the payment of the special premium.
I do not agree that production of high quality milk involves expensive equipment. Provided suppliers adopt a good standard of hygiene in the production and handling of milk on farms, a substantial proportion of the milk should qualify for the price premium. Cooling is undoubtedly important, particularly in warm weather, in ensuring that milk maintains its original quality until reaching the creamery, but hygienic production is still the fundamental factor. It should also be borne in mind that the price premium is a continuing one and that any capital expenditure that may initially be incurred can be spread over a number of years.
Loans for the purchase of milk coolers are obtainable on easy terms by milk suppliers and creameries from the Agricultural Credit Corporation.
As the instructions issued to creamery managers for the testing of milk under the scheme are lengthy, I have arranged to have copies made available in the Library of the House.