Vol. 494 No. 4
222 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will suspend the Government's inspection levy of £1.25 per pig for pig producers who are experiencing a serious income crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18712/98]
The levying of the veterinary inspection fee for pigs is governed by EU legislation and therefore any adjustment to it must be done with EU approval. I have sought EU Commission approval to adjust the fee in line with the price paid to producers. The Commission has not yet responded.
The Commission did respond positively to my request for increased export refunds and for a private storage scheme, both of which actions will be of benefit to producers' income.
