Seamus Kirk
Question:140 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if combined land and milk quota sales will be allowed post 1 April 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4729/00]
Written Answers. - Milk Quota.
On 13 October 1999 I announced my intention to introduce, by way of national regulations, applicable from 1 April 2000, an arrangement for the transfer of milk quota other than the current system whereby such quota transfers with land.
The objectives of the new arrangements are to provide for: more flexibility and certainty for milk producers in the operation of the milk quota regime; greater priority access to additional permanent milk quota for small scale and medium size producers; the retention of as many dairying enterprises as possible; greater competitiveness within the Irish milk production sector.
As I already announced, the position which will obtain after 1 April 2000 where milk quotas will no longer transfer with land, will be subject to certain exceptions. The exceptions will cover family transactions, renewals of existing leases between the original lessor and lessee, sale of a holding as a going concern and the transfer by way of lease or sale of land purchased with quota between 13 October 1999 and 31 March 2000. Detailed conditions in relation to these exceptions will be defined.