Vol. 476 No. 2
244 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, to market Irish food and drink products at home and abroad; the support for the private sector in such developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6613/97]
An Bord Bia has statutory responsibility for promoting, assisting and developing the marketing of Irish food, drink and livestock. Its Market Development Strategy 1995-1999 is the framework for the delivery of a comprehensive market development programme for Irish food and drinks covering both the home and export markets. The strategy is implemented through annual programmes which take account of ongoing developments in the food industry and encompass all aspects of food promotion and market development with appropriate focus on target markets and market segments.
Support for the private sector is provided directly through financial assistance programmes for individual companies and indirectly through a wide range of market related activities and services. Responsibility for promoting and developing the marketing of edible horticultural produce on the home market is vested in An Bord Glas which operates similar programmes and services.
