Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Feb 1996

Vol. 461 No. 1

Written Answers - Export Refunds.

Brian Cowen

Question:

257 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the changes in the rates of export refund prefixations on live cattle from October 1995, to Easter 1996; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2618/96]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

The changes in the rates of export refunds for live cattle exports to North Africa and the Middle East destinations since October were as follows:

Date	£/100 kg
14 October 1995	65.53
11 November 1995	60.55
18 November 195	45.41
13 November 1995	51.43

(Following a meeting of the Beef Management Committee on 2 February, the rate of export refund for live cattle will be increased to £53.92/100 kg from 12 February.)

I have sought the restoration of refunds to adequate levels in order to underpin the income situation of cattle producers and, in particular, winter fatteners. While the increases in the rate of refund last December and the most recent increase agreed by the EU Beef Management Committee are welcome. I will continue to press for refund levels which will make Irish beef and cattle competitive on international markets and provide producers with a reasonable income.