Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)

Why is it proposed that compensation for the relinquishment of the Irish sugar quota will go to Greencore? It seems clear that the control and ownership of the sugar quota is in the hands of that company because it will be for it to decide whether to relinquish it. In this context, will the Minister use her infamous golden share to ensure the Irish beet quota remains within the property of Irish beet growers? Beet farmers have made significant investments in buying beet contracts, machinery and equipment but now seem to have no rights in this regard.

In regard to the forthcoming WTO discussions in Hong Kong, does the Minister agree that the proposals put forward by the Commissioner for Trade, Mr. Peter Mandelson, will wipe out the sugar industry here and throughout the Union irrespective of the discussions about to take place at EU level on the future sugar quota?

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