asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if his attention has been drawn to a report by the National Dairy Committee of the Irish Farmers Association expressing concern regarding the present lack of arrangements for the continuation of Bord Bainne's role in marketing dairy produce in any context of Irish entry into the EEC; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dairy Produce Marketing.
17.
I am not aware of any specific grounds for concern about the steps being taken in regard to the central marketing of dairy products under EEC conditions. In fact the Dairy Organisations Council, representing producers and milk processing interests, have drawn up detailed proposals for a co-operative marketing organisation which would take the place of the present Bord Bainne after Ireland's accession to the EEC and would operate as a central marketing body for our dairy produce exports. These proposals have been discussed by co-operative interests throughout the country and have, I understand, met with general approval.
Did the Minister see the report?
No, I did not.
Can the Minister say if Bord Bainne have received from the EEC an authoritative statement on the role, and the extent of the role, of an Irish dairy marketing board in an EEC context?
I cannot say what communication there is between Bord Bainne and the EEC.
Is the Minister satisfied that he and his Department have been fully informed on the precise role that can be played by an Irish dairy marketing board?
Yes, I am.
Does that apply to other commodities?
There are other areas besides the dairy produce.
Question No. 18.
Why has the Minister not told us the role of Bord Gráin in the EEC?
That is a totally separate question.