Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

The decision of whether to convert from conventional to organic dairy farming is a matter of decision for each dairy farmer, based on their circumstances and preferences. While there had been an increased interest in organic production early in this decade, the exceptionally high prices for conventional manufacturing milk in 2007 and early 2008 probably dampened this interest. Other reasons for the limited interest may include the fact that concentrate feed costs are less influential than they were, the fact that there is no premium on the product during the two-year conversion period when some additional costs may be incurred and the fact that farmers have their own preferences in relation to co-operative dealings and the use of veterinary medicinal products.

I can assure Deputies that the organic option is available for those who might wish to consider it. Anyone contemplating such a conversion can be guided through the process by my Department. Specifically in the milk area, there is a further incentive for those converting in the form of a special additional allocation of 45,000 litres of milk quota.

Last year, I announced the latter scheme and was facilitated by the 2% increase in milk quotas from 1 April 2008, that I helped to secure earlier. The scheme allows existing organic producers to expand and is also aimed at encouraging new entrants into the sector. It is in keeping with the Organic Action Plan 2008-2012, which is my Department's response to the target in the programme for Government for 5% of the agricultural land area to be under organic production by 2012. One of the specific actions in the plan is to facilitate the expansion of the organic dairy sector by allocating additional quota and I am pleased that I have been able to deliver upon this so soon.

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