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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 10 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 2

Written Answers. - Butter Voucher Scheme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

72 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will give details of his decision relating to the entitlement to butter vouchers which appear to have been discontinued for those on social assistance programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3778/00]

The social butter scheme, which was fully fundable from the EU agriculture budget, was one of a number of measures used to contribute to balance in the EU dairy market. Ireland was the only member state which operated it. The aid level was progressively reduced from year to year and a decision was taken by the EU Agriculture Council in December, 1998 to allow the scheme to operate for one final year. The new basic Council regulation governing the milk regime as agreed under Agenda 2000 did not provide for this scheme beyond January 2000. There is therefore, no legal basis for continuing the scheme beyond that date.

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