asked the Minister for Agriculture when he received an application for an increase in the price of liquid milk and when a decision will be forthcoming.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Liquid Milk Price.
36.
An application for an increase in the minimum price of liquid milk which was received from the IFA. National Liquid Milk Group in May last was discussed with them by my predecessor on 6 July last. No increase was granted following that meeting. I have, however, already arranged to meet this group on 12 March.
Would the Minister not agree that there are serious dangers of supplies of liquid milk not being available if producers are not given an adequate price increase to compensate them for the much higher costs involved in liquid milk production than in creamery production?
I will be meeting the group tomorrow, the 12th, and will be prepared to listen to any proposals or views they may have.
Question No. 37 has gone for written reply.