Vol. 490 No. 7
116 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has satisfied himself with the butter fat testing system; and his views on the creation of an independent authority to oversee and monitor the tests carried out by the individual co-ops. [10984/98]
Under the provisions of the European Communities (Milk Quota) Regulations 1995 (S. I. No. 266 of 1995) milk purchasers are required to determine the fat content of milk delivered by producers. The purchaser is required to notify each producer of the results of the fat tests and to retain and preserve the records of these results.
The procedures for testing the butter fat content of milk at creameries/dairies are monitored by my Department as part of its inspection and control function.
I am satisfied that these controls are operating effectively and I therefore do not see a need for another independent authority.
