Vol. 501 No. 1
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, he has to ensure the future of the dairy industry with particular reference to export markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5505/99]
The dairy sector is regulated by means of the market support structure under the EU Common Organisation of the Market for Milk and Milk Products. Quotas on production are a particularly important part of the regime. The future of this support structure including prices and quota levels is being considered within the Agenda 2000 negotiations. It is my objective within these negotiations to seek the best possible result for Irish agriculture and as regards milk to ensure a support framework which is best suited to the Irish industry. Continued development of our already strong export performance must be a part of this framework.
