Vol. 492 No. 4
171 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the latest information available in his Department in relation to the number of beef and other meat producing farmers who employ organic and bio-dynamic methods of production; the developments, if any, his Department anticipates in this sector as a result of impending CAP reform and world trade organisation commitments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14426/98]
Since 1993 some 700 beef and other meat producing farmers have notified my Department of their involvement in organic production. Participation in organic farming has been on the increase since 1994, mainly due to the introduction of the rural environment protection scheme (REPS). This scheme was introduced under the last round of CAP reform measures and provides for additional payments to participating farmers who convert to or continue with organic farming methods.
172 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the mechanisms, if any, in place within his Department to facilitate liaison with independent organisations established to foster, support, encourage, develop and provide mechanisms for the production of clean, safe, nutritional food through the application of organic and biodynamic methods with particular reference to the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association Limited, The Irish Organic Trust Limited, Demeter Standards Limited and the Organic Food Co-operative Society Limited. [14427/98]
My Department set up an organic farming unit in 1990 to help develop all aspects of the organic farming sector. Since its establishment, the unit has indicated and maintained ongoing contacts with independent organisations and individuals in relation to organic farming, the development of organic farming and in providing financial and other supports to the sector.
Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association Ltd. (IOFGA), Organic Trust Ltd., and Demeter Standards Ltd., have been approved by my Department as inspection and certification bodies for organic crop production under Council Regulation (EC) 2092/91. In addition, an organic consultative committee was put in place by my Department in 1996. This committee has representation from a number of independent organisations and its role is to advise the Minister on all aspects of the organic agriculture and food industry.
