Billy Timmins
Ceist:110 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to redress his decision to double disease levies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22608/03]
Written Answers. - Bovine Disease Levies.
A provision of €216 million was made in the 2003 Estimates for Exchequer expenditure on animal diseases of which €67 million related to TB and brucellosis eradication. At current rates, the disease levies will bring in some €20 million in 2003.
In the context of the agreement with the farming organisations, it was agreed that reviews of expenditure will be carried out during 2003 with a view to identifying savings while protecting consumer health, animal health and animal welfare and complying with statutory requirements.