asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will consider imposing limits on the price of milk quotas for lease and for sale; if he will consider in conjunction with ICOS the introduction of a purchase/lease scheme whereby flexi-milk can be obtained for new entrants and the cost can be borne by all producers within the creamery so as to ensure that these new entrants will have a minimal viable quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Milk Quotas.
504.
Under the super-levy regulations, milk quotas may not be leased or sold unless the land to which the quota is attached is also leased or sold. Accordingly any imposition of limits on the price of quotas does not arise.
I have already suggested to ICOS that they should consider purchasing the excess milk offered by unsuccessful applicants under the milk cessation scheme and make it available to priority categories of producers such as new entrants. This suggestion is being examined by them at present and I am expecting a response shortly.