Vol. 527 No. 3
85 Miss Fox asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing problems in relation to the Milk Rights Group; if he will consider them for milk quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26263/00]
I outlined my position in relation to the milk rights group in Dáil Éireann on numerous occasions and most recently in the statement I made during the debate of 14-15 November on a Private Member's motion.
The position is that no provision has been made in respect of any persons or group of persons who are not party to the proceedings in the Duff case and other associated cases. I have received legal advice to the effect that any proceedings that may be initiated by such persons are barred by the passage of time.
This issue is extremely complex and has implications for the generality of milk producers in view of the limited amount of quota available. It is also the case that the State simply cannot be expected to take on legal responsibilities where they do not exist.
However, notwithstanding this position, and despite the fact that there is no legal obligation to go further towards meeting the demands of the group in question, I am prepared to look at what can be done in the context of the additional quota which will become available on 1 April 2001.
I have consulted with the various social partners in the industry on this issue and specifically with the milk quota review group, which is representative of all the main players. I will also have regard to the views of the Attorney General, given the complex legal issues involved, before I make a decision in the matter. If it were possible to allocate some quota to such a category it would have to be on a very restricted basis.
