asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he has any figures available to him which would confirm the estimate by the EEC Commissioner for Agriculture that the operation of MCAs is costing Irish farmers £45 million per annum.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - MCAs Operations.
39.
While I understand that the Commissioner was reported to have given this figure as an estimate of the effect on Irish farmers of the difference between the representative rate of the Irish £ relative to the Unit of Account and the current market rate of the £, there are, of course, other considerations and, as I indicated in reply to a question on 29th May, all of the complex issues involved are being studied at present. Pending completion of the study, I do not propose to comment on any detailed aspect of the matter.
Would the Minister consider the possibility of the green pound, in view of the effect on our cattle trade at the moment? The difference between what we are getting——
I did not hear the Deputy's question.
The issue of a green pound.
Would it have an effect on the price of cattle?
Yes.
It certainly would. It would improve the price.
Would the Minister consider pressing the matter?
I am having it studied.