Vol. 503 No. 7
41 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which he is planning for the future in respect of agriculture and specifically in relation to the retention, expansion and extension of markets for produce at home and abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11025/99]
The framework for the development of Irish agriculture has been set by the outcome of the Agenda 2000 negotiations, which was favour able to Irish agriculture. The development of markets for agricultural products is a major priority and policy formulation for the sector has that objective continuously in focus. The Food Industry Development Group, which was established under my aegis, has analysed that sector in detail and proposed an action plan for its development over the next seven years. An Bord Bia have also formulated a strategy for the marketing and promotion of food.
