Vol. 527 No. 3
78 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he has had any recent meetings with the concerned milk quota holders group; his views on their legitimate concerns; and if he has any proposals to meet these concerns. [28402/00]
I am fully aware of the views of the group in question and I have met its members on a number of occasions in the past.
In response to their concerns, which relate largely to the position of quota holders no longer involved in milk production, I have already outlined in detail the options open to its members under the new regime. I have addressed the points raised by the group in the House.
The provisions of Agenda 2000 allowed me to make important changes to the management of the milk quota regime here. The changes, which came into effect from 1 April, reflect the concerns on the part of the Government for the livelihoods of Ireland's dairy farmers and the long-term future of the dairy sector. These changes, which are designed to give active committed producers greater access to quota at a reasonable cost, were necessary if the dairy industry is to successfully position itself to face the competitive challenges which inevitably will arise in the years ahead.
I have consulted widely and taken extensive legal advice on the new arrangements and I have listened to the different views. I believe the new arrangements are in the best interests of the future development of the industry and those committed to active milk production. It is my considered view that all the points raised by the group referred to have been comprehensively and sympathetically dealt with and have been taken into account to the greatest extent possible.
