asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will explain the delay derogations agreed by the EEC affecting (a) liquid milk and (b) consumer subsidy on butter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Agricultural Policy.
47.
As regards (a) the relevant EEC regulation provides for a fat content of at least 3.5 per cent for whole milk for liquid consumption. While such milk here has an average fat content in excess of 3.5 per cent, that level may not always be reached during certain months of the year and there could be some problems at present in arranging for the addition of extra fat. We accordingly secured a derogation from the relevant requirement for a period of five years from the date of accession.
As regards (b) the derogation enables us to phase out, over the transitional five-year period, the subsidy currently payable by the Exchequer here in respect of butter sold on the home market. Such a subsidy is not compatible with the EEC regulations.
Would the Minister state if any other countries obtained a similar derogation in relation to their milk?
I am not aware of that.
In view of the five-year transitional period, does the Minister consider that the steps which are currently being taken to raise the average fat content are sufficient to meet the requirements? Is there any evidence that the butter fat percentage is rising fast enough?
The question of raising the butter fat content can be examined in a number of ways. There can be alterations in cattle-breeding and stock management. There is also a question of nutrition.
Is the Minister satisfied at the derogation obtained?
I would be perfectly satisfied if this relatively simple matter could be dealt with in the five-year period.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.