Vol. 488 No. 4
158 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on whether new entrants to milk production are in urgent need of additional quota in view of correspondence (details supplied); the proposals, if any, he has in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6473/98]
The operation of the milk quota scheme in Ireland takes particular account of the needs of small scale producers and new entrants to milk production.
The milk quota restructuring scheme gives total priority to small scale producers, under 35,000 gallons. Within this category, special provision is made for new entrants. The new entrant category recognises not only those young farmers who wish to get into dairying but also young farmers already committed to dairying but whose quotas are below 20,000 gallons. In the recently announced 1998 national milk restructuring scheme I increased the eligibility ceiling for the new entrant's category from 15,000 gallons to 20,000 gallons. Special consideration is also given to young farmers with smaller milk quotas who apply to the Milk Quota Appeals Tribunal for additional milk quota.
