Vol. 542 No. 5
98 Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the consultations he has had with the Milk Quota Rights Group; if he has made any decisions regarding the allocation of milk quota to members of this group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21346/01]
The Minister met this group and officials of the Department met it on a number of occasions, the last being early this summer. He indicated earlier that, notwithstanding the fact that there was no legal obligation on him to do so, he would see what could be done for certain categories of development farmers in the context of the allocation of the 11.5 million gallons of quota available under Agenda 2000. The Department has been involved in legal consultations to establish the options open to the Minister and complex issues had to be addressed in that context. These consultations are now almost concluded and he expects to be able to announce a decision on this matter in the coming weeks.
I thank the Minister of State for mentioning the legal consultations as his office disallowed that part of my question dealing with them, although the Minster raised them himself last June and in the spring. This is the third occasion on which we have discussed this matter in the House. Why is it taking so long to come to a conclusion? Is the Minister of State not aware that the milk year to which the quota applies ends next March? Does he not agree that the allocation of additional quota is of limited use to those concerned, and others who are the subject of a later question? Does he believe that a step will be taken in the foreseeable future?
As I said on the Minister's behalf, he expects a development soon. As the Deputy is aware, there were legal consultations. The advice of the Office of the Attorney General was to pro ceed on a legal basis because those who did not take part in the Duff case were deemed to have no rights arising from it. Legal advice takes time as it is a busy office which must advise in every area and advice may have to be checked. It should be completed in the next few weeks.
From his knowledge of the situation, can the Minister of State say that he is confident that a positive decision will be made in favour of this group's claim after so many years? Will there be good news for the group?
There are 11.5 million gallons available—
That was not my question.
I will answer the Deputy's question. I wish to explain to him—
I could write a book on the subject.
I know that, and also that we can all write letters about it. We all have letters on this subject. The rights group originally claimed on behalf of 2,100 members originally – it is now claiming for 3,000 members – eight to ten million gallons as well as £40 million or £50 million compensation. That must be carefully checked as it would wipe out any additional quota for younger farmers or hardship cases. I am confident that a decision will be reached in the next couple of weeks.
A positive decision.
A decision.
A positive decision.
I can say no more until the Minister receives his legal advice. I hope for many it will be positive, but it is like the miracle of the loaves and fishes.
