It is estimated that 27,000 dairy farmers will suffer. I spoke to a number of young farmers last week who pointed out that dairy farming had been a lucrative sector, especially for those starting in farming. The future now appears uncertain, even though the bulk of the cut had been decided in 1999 under Agenda 2000. The Minister has indicated that the amount of pain endured will depend on how each farmer reacts to changing market realities. A substantial switch in production from butter to high value dairy products such as cheese has been long overdue. The reforms contain an important element of national discretion in phasing. Such flexibility should allow welcome room in encouraging the beef industry to focus more on a higher quality premium product.