Vol. 497 No. 2
107 Mr. Farrelly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the State will comply with the discovery of documents ordered by Mr. Justice Fred Morris, President of the High Court, on 10 November 1998 in relation to the milk quota action group case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24547/98]
180 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a case (details supplied) has been ongoing for more than eight years, the Supreme Court has given judgment against him and, as a result of his failure to discover documents, damages have not yet been assessed by the High Court with the result that many farmers entitled to milk quotas are facing bankruptcy; and when the damages awarded against him will be paid. [24721/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 180 together.
I am fully aware of this case. The Supreme Court ruled in favour of the plaintiffs in March 1997. It did not however deal with their individual entitlements but referred the matter to the High Court for assessment of damages. The claims made raise many complex issues still to be determined by the courts. The legal teams on both sides are making every effort to get this action on for hearing. Discovery sought by the plaintiffs' solicitors has been complied with.
