asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries what efforts his Department are making to obtain a suitable market for the sale of eggs; and if he will make a comprehensive statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Egg Market.
117.
Britain, which was our traditional outlet, has become virtually self-sufficient in eggs for quite a number of years past, largely as a result of high subsidies paid to British producers. In consequence, our market there declined, and in recent years exports have been almost entirely small seasonal surpluses from County Donegal to Derry, mainly in spring and early summer.
The British Government decided last year to phase out their subsidies to producers of eggs over the next few years, but they introduced in April, 1970, a minimum import price system in order to maintain market prices. Under arrangements made with the British Government in the context of the Free Trade Area Agreement, no restriction of any kind applies to import of Irish eggs into Britain provided they are offered at not less than the minimum price. Other supplying countries, however, may have to pay a levy even when they do not sell below the minimum price.
As regards the EEC, as the Deputy is, no doubt, aware, the Community operate a protective system of sluicegate prices and high import levies which at present precludes economic exports of our eggs to that market.
Our present policy, therefore, is to increase the efficiency of the industry by encouraging, with grant aid, the growth of more economic production units with modern housing and equipment and by ensuring the availability of the best strains of laying stock. The continued development of the industry towards greater efficiency should enable our producers to be competitive in free market conditions.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the difference in prices paid to the producer and the retail price? Can he state what control his Department have over this practice?
That is a separate question.
It is relevant.
I am calling Question No. 118.