asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has made a study of the EEC Commission proposals on the organisation of the beef market; and if he will make a statement on their implication for Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Beef Market.
21.
The Commission's proposals for amendment of the common organisation of the market in beef are being examined in preparation for the discussions which will take place shortly in the Council of Ministers. I do not propose to indicate in advance the line I intend to take in those discussions but the Deputy can rest assured that it will be my concern to ensure that the interests of producers are fully safeguarded.
Is it the Minister's intention that the price being obtained by farmers would be increased by approximately 8 per cent or 10 per cent, which would be sufficient to offset the increase in production costs during the past year?
The Deputy is anticipating the annual price fixing meetings held by the Council of Ministers and I cannot anticipate what the Council will decide. As I have said, he can rest assured that I will try to procure the last penny that can be got for Irish producers.