David Stanton
Question:159 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views regarding the state and the future of the sugar beet industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28190/01]
Written Answers. - Sugar Beet Industry.
The production of sugar in all member states of the European Union, including Ireland, is regulated by the EU sugar regime, which has been in operation since 1968. The EU regulation specifies a sugar quota for each member state and provides that the quota be allocated to the sugar manufacturing enterprises on the member state's territory. In Ireland's case the quota is allocated to Irish Sugar plc, the only manufacturer of sugar in the country. It is a matter for the sugar manufacturer to place contracts with farmers to deliver sugar beet sufficient to allow for the production of the sugar quota. The EU regulation also specifies that the manufacturer must pay to the grower at least the minimum price for sugar beet of standard quality and sugar content. Any additional amount is a matter for negotiation between the two parties.
The present regime will apply until the end of the 2005-06 marketing year and I am satisfied that the regime operates very well in ensuring a reasonable and secure standard of living and income for Community growers of sugar beet and cane a constant supply of sugar beet and sugar cane to the sugar manufacturing industry and a continued supply of high quality sugar at reasonable prices to consumers both industry and domestic.
I am aware of the present dispute between the sugar beet growers and Irish Sugar plc, and I am very anxious that the matter be resolved quickly to the satisfaction of both sides. I urge the two sides to do everything possible to find an acceptable solution. In this context, the Minister of State, Deputy Davern, is meeting both sides today in an effort to seek to resolve the matter.