asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if increases in creamery and liquid milk prices will be announced in future on the same day.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Milk Prices.
70.
The situation in regard to the determination of milk prices will be altered considerably following Ireland's accession to the EEC and changes in returns to producers after accession will depend largely on the operation of the EEC system.
Would the Minister agree it is unsatisfactory that prices are announced on two different dates? If the first increase in price is announced earlier than the second there may be a shift of production from one line to another and then when the second price increase is announced there may be a shift back.
This is more apparent than real because, as the Deputy knows, manufacturing milk is largely seasonal, production reaching its peak between May and July, whereas the liquid milk trade suppliers have to keep a supply all the year round. I agree that the nearer the changes in prices are announced the better but I do not think it has a serious effect in the re-routing of milk.
I think it could have had in this instance.