The principal source of funding for the dairy promotion and publicity campaigns carried out by the National Dairy Council has been the EC co-responsibility levy. Following a decision by the Council of Ministers, this levy will be abolished with effect from 1 April 1993. While there are funds available from the current year's levy receipts to finance a further campaign by the NDC, alternative arrangements must be made thereafter.
While the valuable role of the organisation is recognised there are no plans for a State contribution to the operation of the NDC. The promotion of dairy products is primarily the responsibility of the dairy industry itself and I understand the NDC is currently discussing its future financing with the industry.