asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the reasons for the abolition of An Bord Gráin and the amount of compensation or the alternative employment to be provided for the thirty members of the staff involved; and if this decision is under further review.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disbandment of An Bord Gráin.
154.
The arrangements in relation to wheat levy and marketing of home grown barley which were the main functions of An Bord Gráin ceased to operate with the coming into effect of the Common Agricultural Policy of the EEC on 1st February. As there are no appropriate functions which might be assigned to the board under EEC conditions, it is the intention to disband the board as soon as its present commitments have been met.
The board's recommendations in regard to compensation for the employees have been approved and I have asked the board to assist the staff as far as possible in seeking alternative employment.
Is it not true to say that the grain interests have been approached a long time ago knowing that these were the circumstances which would arise to ensure that the displacement of staff would be as little as possible?
I am quite sure that is so. I think the staff are satisfied.