Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Mar 1996

Vol. 462 No. 6

Written Answers. - Pig Production.

James Leonard

Question:

121 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to carry out an examination into the pig feed costs in view of the decline in pig production and recent substantial feed prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5179/96]

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

In December 1995 total pig numbers were 2.9 per cent up on the figure for December 1994. It will take some months however before the increased number of pigs comes through to slaughter stage, but supplies should improve in the latter part of the year.

The cost of composite pig meal, as compiled by Teagasc, has only slightly risen in 1995 and in the first few months of 1996 it has risen more steeply. This reflects an increase worldwide in the price of certain cereals, which is also affecting other EU member states.

On several occasions last year I raised the matter of feed prices in the whitemeat sector at the Council of Agriculture Ministers in Brussels and directly with the EU Commission. However, the Commission has indicated that it is not prepared to take action on the basis that it would lead to competition distortions between the different regions of the European Union.

As part of the Poultry Industry Forum a detailed study on the difference between feed costs in Ireland and in other EU member states is currently being undertaken. It is intended that this study will identify areas where feed costs can be reduced.

I have arranged for the release of quantities of intervention barley which were held in Irish stores in order to make grain available at reasonable prices to assist pigmeat and poultry producers. The release of this grain is continuing. There is 36,000 tonnes of intervention barley on offer, of which about 6,000 tonnes have already been sold. This action is helping to keep feed prices lower than otherwise would be the case.