Vol. 498 No. 5
25 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the basis, if any, he has considered in order to put in place a support group funding structure for the retail food sector, in particular, restaurant and food service areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27839/98]
I recognise that the retail and food service sectors have an important role to play in the development of the food industry. The Food Industry Development Group, which was charged with the task of formulating a future action plan for the industry, included representation from the retail sector. The group's report will be available shortly and will be taken into account in the context of the new national development plan and the next round of Stuctural Funds.
As part of its function in the marketing and promotion of Irish food, An Bord Bia continues to work in close liaison with the retail and food service sectors. Relevant activities include media campaigns, food fairs, regional food festivals, seminars for chefs and ongoing advisory programmes.
