Vol. 482 No. 8
64 Mr. Browne (Wexford) asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on whether a cartel is operating amongst the major players operating in the pigmeat industry in Ireland; the steps, if any, he is taking to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19292/97]
I have no evidence available to me of a cartel operating in the pigmeat industry in this country. Prices paid to producers are determined by the availability of supplies and by the demand for pigmeat. It should also be recognised that prices have traditionally been cyclical and while prices in Ireland have declined in recent times they have been quite satisfactory for a sustained period.
