asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries when the EEC will formulate a sheep policy; and the likely advantages for Irish sheep producers.
48.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Sheep Policy.
47.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will make a statement on the future of a Common Market policy for sheep; if it is likely that there will be agreement for such a policy in the foreseeable future; and, if not, if he has any plans to hold direct talks with the French Minister with a view to obtaining a special agreement with the French Government for imports of Irish carcase lamb.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose taking Questions Nos. 47 and 48 together.
I again pressed at last week's meeting of the EEC Council of Ministers the question of a common organisation of the market for sheep and lambs. It was indicated that the EEC Commission hoped to put forward in two or three weeks' time a statement of what they intend to propose in the matter.
I look forward to a common policy for sheep and lambs giving us improved access to EEC markets and better and more stable prices for our exports of carcase mutton and lamb.
Would the Minister tell us how much per lamb the failure to get agreement for a Common Market sheep price is costing Irish sheep producers?
I would not like to put a figure on it. It is something that fluctuates as the levy is increased or decreased by the French.
Would the Minister be kind enough to give us an average figure?
It is 19p per lb at the moment, as far as my recollection goes—a variable level.
I think the Minister's figure is rather low.
I should like to hear the correct figure. That was the figure a week ago.
It is 21p.
Is it true that the French are not too enthusiastic about a sheep policy?
They say they are enthusiastic and that is all I can tell the Deputy. I do not think there is much enthusiasm in any of the member states for a common organisation of the market for sheep and lamb.