Ivor Callely
Question:178 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the estimated increase in farmers' incomes for 1995 over 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17858/95]
Vol. 458 No. 8
178 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the estimated increase in farmers' incomes for 1995 over 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17858/95]
I understand that the Central Statistics Office intends to publish its Advance Estimate of Agricultural Output, Input and Income next week. In the circumstances, I feel that it would be inappropriate for me, at this stage, to comment in any detail. I can say, however, that 1995 was a very good year for the dairying and cereals sectors and there were strong performances from the beef and pigmeat sectors. While we must await the official outcome from the CSO, I see every reason for optimism and expect a very satisfactory increase in farmers' income in 1995. When the CSO has published its estimate I will make a further statement on the matter.