Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 2

Written Answers. - Milk Butter Fat Content.

Donal Moynihan

Question:

185 Mr. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will issue a reply to Deputy Donal Moynihan's representations of 25 February 1993 and 2 March 1993 regarding complaints received from milk suppliers, particularly a company (details supplied) regarding penalties imposed because of the increase in butter fat content of milk for 1992/93; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. J. Walsh)

I have replied to Deputy Moynihan's representations in this matter.

The position under the EC milk quota regulations is that the butter fat content of milk deliveries is a factor in assessing the super-levy for the quota year. If a member state's reference butter fat level is exceeded in a quota year the amount of the milk deliveries for that year must be adjusted upwards on the basis of a set formula. If the adjusted amount exceeds the national quota, super levy is payable on the quantity in excess of the quota. The individual producer's situation is taken into account in that his/her milk quota must also be adjusted, positively or negativelyvis-à-vis his/her own butter fat reference level.