Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 7

Written Answers. - Food Industry.

Seán Ryan

Question:

66 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the office of food was re-established within his Department which has overall responsibility for the development and marketing of the food industry; the number of personnel allocated to this office; their areas of responsibility; the level of funding made available to ensure the overall objective is achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11041/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Within my Department, responsibility for the overall development of the food industry, including marketing, has been assigned to the food division, which has been in existence since 1987.

There are 14 people employed in the food division. Their responsibilities cover implementing and co-ordinating the various measures under the current development strategy – the food sub-programme, overseeing the activities of An Bord Bia and the administration of various EU regulatory requirements. In carrying out its tasks, the food division liaises closely with other divisions within the Department and with those State agencies involved in the development of the food industry. This ensures a co-ordinated and cohesive approach to the industry's development.

Taking account of adjustments made in the mid-term review of structural funds, the food sub-programme provides for a total investment of £586 million over the 1994 to 1999 period. This includes £250 million in public funds. The progress to date under the sub-programme has been very satisfactory. Within the last five years, output has increased by £2.2 billion and exports by £1 billion. There has been particularly strong growth in the high value consumer foods and food ingredients segments. Such progress reflects well on the integrated nature of the sub-programme and on the synergy which exists between my Department and relevant State agencies.

The food industry development group, which was established under the aegis of my Department, has formulated a proposed action plan for future development. The group's report is a comprehensive one and its recommendations are based on a detailed analysis of recent performance and likely future opportunities and challenges. That report is being borne in mind in the ongoing discussions on the new national development plan and the next round of structural funds.