205 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will make a statement on meat slaughter plants paying a flat rate for beef which in the long-term could affect quality and carcase formation if quality beef is not reflected in price paid. [6841/97]

Under the European Communities Beef Carcase Classification Regulations the processor is obliged to give the vendor full details of the weight, carcase classification and other characteristics on the purchase document. While these regulations provide a framework for the purchase of cattle on the basis of quality, the mechanism used for payment for cattle is a matter solely between the processor and the vendor.