asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that milk production since 1st January is considerably below the projected 1966 requirements of An Bord Bainne; if so, whether he proposes to take any steps to ensure that the Board will be in a position to meet its full market commitments; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Milk Production.
32.
Notwithstanding the unfavourable weather conditions deliveries of milk to creameries so far this year have been higher than in the corresponding part of 1965, a year when deliveries were at a record level. Indeed, during the week ended 11th June, the latest for which complete figures are available, deliveries to creameries reached the highest weekly intake ever recorded.
A few months ago when the continuing bad weather was having a pronounced effect on milk production, I had a discussion on the situation with representatives of An Bord Bainne and have since been keeping in touch with the Board on the position and I am satisfied that there is no question of the Board's being unable to meet any market commitments which it has entered into.
I would remind the Deputy that a month ago I announced two very practical measures to assist creamery milk production, viz., an immediate increase of 2d per gallon on all milk delivered to creameries and an extra 1d per gallon allowance for high quality creamery milk as from 1st April next. I am confident that these price improvements will be reflected in increased production and that, despite the effects of the adverse weather conditions with which the dairying industry has had to contend in recent months, milk deliveries to creameries will establish a new record in 1966.