Mary Wallace (Meath, Fianna Fail)

The Department already conducts regular checks on the results of butter fat testing carried out by milk processors. It also checks the calibration of instruments used in milk processing establishments for measuring fat and protein levels in milk collected from producers. The Department also monitors the instruments used in measuring somatic cell levels in milk delivered to processors.

In addition, the Department conducts random administrative checks to ensure the results of butter fat and protein tests are correctly transcribed into the calculation of the milk price paid to the producer. In accordance with the provisions of the partnership agreement, Towards 2016, the Department will extend its monitoring and cross checking of the milk testing regime to include all constituents used for payment purposes and, in consultation with the industry, will ensure transparency in the milk analysis regime.

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