40 Mr. M. Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the final outcome of 1998 and 1999 milk quota production in terms of volume and butterfat; the prospects which lie ahead to increase this in the context of the Agenda 2000 agreement on agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10988/99]

The latest information available indicates that milk deliveries for the 1998-99 milk quota year will be under quota when adjusted for butterfat. The definitive position will not be available until all milk purchasers submit their annual declarations and the data incorporated in the declarations has been verified. The European Communities (Milk Quota) Regulations, 1995, S.I. No. 266 of 1995, stipulate that the annual declarations be forwarded to the Minister before 15 May in each year.

The Agenda 2000 agreement on milk provides for a quota increase for each member state. For most of these member states there will be a 1.5, per cent increase commencing in 2005. In Irelands case a specific allocation of 2.86 per cent additional quota or 150,000 tonnes or 32 million gallons was agreed. Two-thirds of this will be available with effect from 1 April 2000, with the balance available from 1 April 2001.