Returns for cattle producers
McCoy asked whether added value and savings would improve cattle prices for producers and whether the proposed technology was adequate. The Minister said the IDA was satisfied with the technology and expected the project to strengthen the meat industry and returns to producers; the Chair then moved to the next question.
In view of the proposed savings on intervention, Third World refunds and the proposed added value, will there be a better price for the producer of raw materials? As Deputy Bruton said, the price of cattle is variable and it is difficult to make money out of producing them. Does the Minister consider that this will give a guaranteed price to the producer of meat and for cattle in the market place? Is the Minister satisfied with the level of technology proposed in relation to shelf life and added value products——
Comment on this
Following their comprehensive assessment of this application over a number of months, the IDA are satisfied that the technology is available. The whole basis for this project was to provide a better cattle industry over the years. As the Deputy is aware, there is a seasonal supply problem and a dependence on opportunistic markets like third countries and intervention. I have no doubt that at the end of the project the Irish meat industry will be at the top of the world league in terms of added value, processing and the money paid to the original producer.
Deputy Durkan rose.
