Testing Service.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2004

Wednesday, 13 October 2004

Questions (49)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

49 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will introduce independent testing of milk; if her attention has been drawn to concerns regarding the current system among many farmers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24481/04]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The development of an independent milk testing service is a matter for the industry itself. My Department already conducts regular checks on the results of butter fat testing carried out by milk processors. It also checks the calibration of the instruments used in milk processing establishments for measuring the fat and protein levels in milk collected from producers. In addition, my Department conducts random administrative checks to ensure that the results of butter fat and protein tests are correctly transcribed into the calculation of the milk price paid to the producer.