Joe Walsh
Question:160 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will restore the butter voucher scheme to two vouchers per month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1936/97]
Written Answers. - Butter Voucher Scheme.
This measure is fully funded by the European Union without any Exchequer contribution. Following a recent review of the future of the scheme by the European Commission, the conclusion was reached that it should be extended for a further two years, but that the monthly entitlement should be halved to reflect the general decline in butter consumption in Ireland. Since 1980, per capita butter consumption in Ireland has fallen from 2lbs per month to under 1lb.
The Agriculture Council agreed in December to continue the scheme on the basis of the Commission proposal.