Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

As Deputy Sherlock is aware we have engaged in conversation both in the House and outside in respect of the work of this group. Our dairy consultative group will run in parallel with the work of the high level group. It is our intention to keep the consultative group fully informed of the issues under discussion at the high level group in the European Union in advance of the discussions in Europe and subsequently. We seek an input from all stakeholders and welcome an input from the Oireachtas as well. Perhaps the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is the proper vehicle or forum.

Significant issues remain in respect of the dairy industry. The abolition of quota will take place in 2015 and adequate market support measures must be put in place. Market mechanism measures have been helpful this year but we would prefer if they were more effective. We must try to eliminate the volatility that has existed up to now.

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