asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he has any proposals to provide milk quotas to a small number of new entrants to dairying in 1983-84; if he will approve any schemes submitted by co-operatives which would allow them to purchase quotas for such farmers on a lease back basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Milk Quotas.
45.
Under a national reserve set up in July 1985 some 6 million gallons have been allocated to new entrants to milk production by way of permanent quota. In addition these producers are being catered for on a priority basis in the distribution of "flexi-milk".
While the co-operative schemes referred to are not permitted under present Community regulations, the EC Commission brought forward some time ago a restructuring proposal which would enable new entrants and other special category farmers to purchase permanent quotas available within their co-operative areas as a result of other producers ceasing production. As a result of a decision by the Court of Justice of the Community certain legal difficulties have arisen in regard to this proposal and the matter is now being examined further by the Commission.