Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Chair is very tough on me on time so I will have to be quick. I thank Mr. Carr for his helpful opening statement. I ask about the co-operative movement and where it is fixing this issue. There was criticism towards them in respect of this debate in the past 18 months that they were not as vocal as they should have been regarding the nitrates. They have probably come out in front now but they have been quiet enough about the debate about trying to make sure we keep the derogation.

I ask about the viability of our co-operative movement going forward if there is to be a continuous drop in the milk supply like we have seen in the past few years. I ask about the major expansion mentioned in the opening statement. How much has been put into stainless steel? Some has been paid by the farming community. Is Mr. Carr fearful about the economics of this going forward if we were to lose our derogation? Is our co-operative movement on a firm footing? Do we have significant borrowings when it comes to a milk supply that might not come because of a potential loss in milk supply if we are to lose this derogation? We have 59 milk plants in Ireland. It is a significant employer throughout Ireland in many rural towns such as Charleville, Mitchelstown and Ballineen. Is there a fear that without the derogation, these plants could become unviable and there could be a rationalisation plan put in place for the co-operative movement?