asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will introduce an independent testing system for residues in milk, which is causing concern to the farmers in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Milk Testing System.
693.
It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the determination of antibiotic residues in liquid milk. The group representing producers and other interests in the liquid milk industry, which I set up to examine the problem of antibiotic residues, is satisfied with the present system of testing for such residues and there are, therefore, no plans to introduce an independent testing system at this stage.
Since a system of penalties for antibiotic residues in milk was introduced at the start of this year there has been a remarkable reduction in the incidence of such residues in liquid milk.