Vol. 259 No. 2
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will consider setting up a market research agency for the food industry so that the increased production by farmers mendations the necessary legislation, if any, will be prepared.
will be sold on the most remunerative European markets.
I feel that such research would be best done, as needed, on a product basis by or to the order of organisations dealing with the sale or promotion of agricultural products. I do not think that a single market research agency, as suggested by the Deputy, would be the most effective method of operation but I shall have the Deputy's suggestion considered.
Would the Minister's Department be able to finance such an agency in EEC conditions?
The Deputy will be aware of the requirements in EEC which require governments to refrain from practices which would result in the unfair distortion of trade and, within that context, such a proposal would have to be considered. In general, promotion and marketing bodies like An Bord Bainne will have to change their structure and constitution on entry to EEC.
