asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will introduce a lamb classification scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
3.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lamb Classification Scheme.
2.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if it is his intention to introduce a lamb classification scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 3 together.
My Department have already proposed the introduction of a temporary lamb classification scheme which would be brought into operation quickly pending the introduction of a full scale scheme at a later stage. This temporary scheme, which would relate to conformation and fatness, would provide a basis for reflecting market requirements and allow for pricing arrangements related to quality. Regrettably, however, the proposal was not acceptable to certain sectors of the sheep industry and further consultations are now taking place with them. The introduction of classification arrangements is most desirable in the interests of our export trade. I would hope that agreement on an appropriate system can be reached at an early date.
Is the Minister aware of the serious erosion of the market share held by Irish lamb, in particular on the French market, and does he propose taking steps to ensure that there will be no further deterioration?
We suggested a simple type of scheme. As the Deputy is aware, the more elaborate scheme would involve approximately 25 different classes. We opted for a much simpler scheme which could be carried out with existing departmental staff at the meat factories, with the veterinary inspector in charge, but with the support and assistance of the Department's classification personnel. This could be introduced quickly — as soon as the autumn — being a trial scheme and its entire cost would be borne by the State. However, the IFA indicated that they could not opt for this scheme and sought a more elaborate one using the Euro-grid and insisted any scheme should be implemented by the Department's classification staff instead of the vet staff. We got over that one. The very elaborate one would involve legislation. We threw out that suggestion to them and it was rejected. We have had talks with the IFA again and asked them to spell out in writing their commitment to a classification scheme and their views on the nature of such a scheme. Above all we want to know whether they would be prepared to subscribe, in the event of extra costs, to a full scale scheme.
(Limerick West): Is the Minister aware that in his reply he is passing the buck? Will the Minister not take a decision to initiate a lamb classification scheme within the Department? If the Minister is going to use the excuse that he wants to get agreement with all parties he will not get a lamb classification scheme on the Statute Book. If legislation is required why is it that it is not introduced?
Our lack of success is something that occurred recently. In fact, we were more than optimistic because what we had to offer was very simple. We were talking about three fat classes and two conformation classes. It would be a trial and error type of operation and people would be gradually introduced into it. The difficulties about forging ahead without the co-operation of the industry are so great that I would not even contemplate them. For instance, the bulk of lambs are bought live. We need co-operation.
Is the Minister aware that ewe meat is being put into the French market by the British? Is the Minister aware that we lost some of our French contracts in the late fifties and early sixties as a result of similar moves? Will the Minister give us an indication if the Minister for Agriculture, or the Department, have done anything to highlight the position in Europe and to ensure that all member states supplying the French market supply meat of a similar quality?
There is a demand for high quality on the French market. They are looking for lambs of approximately 40 lbs. dead weight while the average carcass here would be about 50 lbs. We are engaged in an educational programme — it was evident at the Spring Show — to encourage our producers to breed the type of animal suitable for the French market. It is very difficult to compel anybody to do anything. At the moment factories are paying by weight and there is not a lot of cribbing about what is being sent in. If we are to get our rightful share of the French market we will have to aim at producing the type of animal required by the French.
(Limerick West): Is the Minister aware of any similar classification scheme in the EC? If so will he copy it?
There is no EC scheme as such but the French operate the fairly elaborate Euro-grid which involves 25 different classes. It is a very elaborate scheme and it will take a lot of getting used to. It could mean that if farmers were not geared for that Euro-grid scheme they would lose out substantially.
(Limerick West): In the Minister's view would it be acceptable here?
Eventually, it would be the right thing to do but I would like to phase it in.
(Limerick West): Should we not aim towards it?
Yes.
(Limerick West): Can we bring it in in stages?
Yes, that is what we were hoping to do.
What about the British manipulation of the French market by substituting ewe meat?
That does not arise. I am moving on to the next question.