Because of the major challenges ahead for the beef industry, I have decided to set up a task force which will examine and make recommendations to facilitate the future development of the industry. The precise terms of reference will be agreed at the first meeting of the group but the aim will be to set out a strategic action plan covering the complete range of activities across the whole cattle and beef spectrum from primary production right through to the processing and marketing ends. The McKinsey report, which I commissioned through Forbairt earlier this year, provides a useful starting point for the work of the group and will be drawn on in the preparation of the action plan.
Because of the comprehensive nature of the task ahead and to ensure the widest possible representation within its remit, members are drawn from senior levels within the production and processing side of the industry as well as from the relevant State agencies. Organisations or bodies not represented on the task force will be given every opportunity to make submissions and to meet with the secretariat of the task force.
The task force will be chaired by the Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, and I will circulate the membership in the Official Report. Given the nature of the task involved, I believe the composition of the group strikes the right balance and that collectively the membership brings the necessary expertise to address the issue which will facilitate the development of the sector.