Vol. 458 No. 3
102 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he recognises the importance of providing proper inspections for farmers operating under the Irish Organic Trust, Irish Organic Farmers and Growers' Association and the Irish biodynamic farmers; and the plans, if any, there are to fund this inspectorate to ensure its continued operation and development. [17060/95]
My Department has approved the three bodies referred to by the Deputy as inspection bodies under Regulation (EEC) No. 2092/91. The approved inspection bodies carry out an annual inspection of their members to confirm that the organic standards are being met. My Department in recognition of this function makes a contribution towards the cost of each of these inspections. In 1995 a total of £10,000 was allocated for this purpose.
