Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 1 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 1

Written Answers - Milk Quota.

Denis Naughten

Question:

203 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when approval will be given to a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon who recently applied to sell his milk quota; the reason for delay in issuing approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11434/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

My Department is currently finalising the transfer of milk quotas for the milk quota year ended 31 March 2001.

The case referred to by the Deputy concerns a transfer in the quota year 2001/2002. Processing of transfers for that year will commence shortly and the person named will be notified directly.

Willie Penrose

Question:

204 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the steps he will take to ensure that a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will receive appropriate compensation or additional milk quota in line with that granted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Duff case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11468/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

I have outlined my position in relation to producers in a similar situation as the named person on numerous occasions.

As I have stated, this issue is extremely complex and has implications for the generality of milk producers in view of the limited amount of quota available. It is also the case that the State simply cannot be expected to take on legal responsibilities where they do not exist. The position is that no provision has been made in respect of any persons or group of persons who are not party to the proceedings in the Duff case and other associated cases. I have received legal advice to the effect that any proceedings that may be initiated by such persons are barred by the passage of time.

However, notwithstanding this position and despite the fact that there is no legal obligation to go further towards meeting the demands of the producers in question, I have already indicated that I am prepared to look at what can be done in the context of the additional quota which became available as part of the Agenda 2000 agreement. I have consulted the various social partners in the industry on this issue and, specifically, the milk quota review group, which is representative of the main players. I will also have regard to the views of the Attorney General, given the complex legal issues involved, before I make a decision on the matter.