Vol. 527 No. 4
123 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his Department is finalising proposals on farm partnerships; if so, when these will be finalised and published; if these proposals will necessitate the approval of the Department of Finance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28828/00]
The option of establishing farm partnerships is already open to producers. However, there may be implications for such partnerships in the context of disease eradication measures, quotas, premium schemes and other schemes depending on the exact arrangements.
I have made provision for partnerships involving milk producers in the new milk quota regulations. The proposals for these dairying partnerships are being finalised in my Department and I hope to announce the detailed rules governing the establishment of these partnerships shortly. These proposals will not require the approval of the Minister for Finance.
