Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 28 Apr 1992

Vol. 418 No. 7

Written Answers. - Cow Suckler Scheme.

John Connor

Question:

83 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if, in relation to the EC cow suckler scheme for small scale milk producers, he will outline his views on whether the maximum average milk production per cow in this scheme, fixed at 712 gallons, is unfair to efficient producers in this category; his views also on whether changes are needed to give effect to an increase in this average figure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Under the terms of suckler cow premium scheme for small-scale milk producers there is provision for exceeding the average milk production per dairy cow of 712 gallons subject to complying with certain requirements. An eligible milk producer can have a higher average production figure per dairy cow accepted for the purposes of this scheme if it is certified on foot of an official milk recording scheme.

I am, however, prepared to keep the matter of the average figure under review and to seek to have it changed should this prove necessary.