Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 746: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding milk quotas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26711/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The primary means of acquiring milk quota is through the Milk Quota Trading Scheme. The Trading Scheme is run twice annually in respect of each Co-op collection area. I expect to announce details of the first stage of the 2013/2014 Trading Scheme in the autumn, and this will be followed by a second stage, which I intend to announce in early 2013. Quota traded under each stage will transfer with effect from 1 April 2013.

The Scheme for the Allocation of Milk Quota to New Entrants, which I introduced in 2009, provides an opportunity for new entrants to dairying to acquire a milk quota. Under this scheme 50 successful applicants will each receive an allocation of 200,000 litres. My Department is currently processing applications to the fourth of five schemes. The final scheme will be announced in early 2013. Other means by which milk quota may be acquired are through the purchase of land and quota on the open market, the purchase of quota only from a qualified relative or through the leasing of land and quota from a qualified relative. Full details of all options referred to above can be obtained by contacting the Milk Quota Section in my Department.