asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when he intends to introduce legislation regarding the payment for milk; and if it is his intention to retain the option of payment for milk on a flat rate basis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment for Milk.
4.
The proposed new national dairying legislation is being prepared at present and I will be introducing it in the Oireachtas as soon as possible. I have indicated to the farm organisations that I am willing to discuss the basis of payment with them before the Bill is introduced.
I thank the Minister for his reply. I should like to point out that this legislation was expected this term and I hope that it will be introduced next term. I should like the Minister to bear in mind that of the total amount of suppliers to the Kerry group, over 80 per cent are on flat rate and 20 per cent are on fat rate as methods of payment for milk. Both groups are happy with this. I should like to ask the Minister to ensure, in future legislation, that there is an option for farmers to decide what method of payment they want. I also hope the Minister will be consistent because he gave a commitment to the ICMSA that he would allow an option. The Minister has declared himself on it so I hope that when the legislation comes forward there will be an option.
What I said to the ICMSA is what I said here. I am willing to discuss the basis of payment with them before the Bill is introduced. I did not make a commitment and I do not think they would say I said that I would ipso facto allow an option. The Bill is in the course of preparation and it will be clear to Members of the House that there are considerable pressures in the parliamentary draftsman's office. As soon as it comes through we will have it through the House as quickly as possible.
Reports in the papers and in the ICMSA publications stated quite clearly that the Minister had given them this commitment.
I said I am prepared to discuss it openly with them. I did not make a commitment.
That is not their understanding.
In any proposed legislation in relation to the payment for milk on a flat rate basis, how does the Minister intend to get around complying with the composition content in milk which is a regulation of the EC under the quota regulations?
It is one of the factors which have to be looked at and that is why I will be glad to look into this and all other factors here in the House on Committee Stage. There are certainly different views on this matter and I would hope that we can have a full and reasoned discussion in the House on Deputy McCoy's question.
Is the Minister concerned that he has misled the ICMSA?
I did not. They have never suggested to me that I did; nor did I do that with any farm organisation.
It is only now the matter has been clarified.