Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for that long answer but it does not change the fact the milk quota situation is a total mess. One only has to think back to what happened last spring when the Minister announced the previous restructuring scheme on a Friday and the following day announced a new scheme whereby quota would be sold through marts, auctioneers and so on. Immediately, the Irish Farmers' Journal printed an article stating that milk quota would be €4 per gallon.

How does the Minister intend to organise ring-fencing? Is she suggesting milk should stay in counties like Cavan and Monaghan? How can this be achieved? How does the Minister reconcile the statement she made in Finland, namely, that quota is finished and is no longer an issue, with the reference in today's Irish Farmers' Journal to the quota rebels who want to bypass all schemes? This is closely linked to the issue of ring-fencing.

The Minister did not answer my key question. How can the House give an assurance to young farmers that it is worth their while to invest in and extend milk quota if we tell them there is no future in milk, the price of milk is collapsing and they will have to bid for it against all others in the open market? The Minister should clarify the position because it is very difficult for young farmers given that milk was quoted at €4 per gallon on a previous occasion but today's newspaper suggests it will be 50 cent a gallon. Where is the future for young farmers?

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