Vol. 505 No. 3
63 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which the future of Irish agriculture is secure arising from recent Agenda 2000 negotiations; the anticipated impact on the industry here; the reason for the difference in prices paid to producers here and in other EU states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13644/99]
I am satisfied that in the agreement reached on the Agenda 2000 CAP reforms, my major objectives of fully protecting the interests of the Irish agriculture and food sectors and providing a framework within which these sectors can maximise their contribution to employment and rural development have been met.
Over the seven year period 2000-06, the gains to Irish farmers from the agreement will amount to £395 million. This compares with a loss of approximately £1.4 billion which would have accrued if the Commission's original proposals of March 1998 had been implemented.
The differences in prices paid to producers here and in other member states are due to a variety of factors such as distance from market, customer preferences, the value and extent of processing and other local and regional market conditions. It is my intention that whatever action is open to me to eliminate any disadvantages to Irish producers, such as improved marketing and promotion, will be taken.
