Vol. 509 No. 5
64 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if the two quality assurance programme co-ordination officers have been appointed; and the progress of the equality assur ance programme for the shellfish industry. [20747/99]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that Bord Iascaigh Mhara has appointed two persons to undertake the co-ordination of a quality assurance programme for the shellfish industry. The officers in question are currently engaged, in conjunction with my Department and the Marine Institute, in a review of biotoxin and microbial testing and monitoring programmes.
Proposals for the development of a total quality management system for the processed rope mussel industry are being evaluated as a priority by my Department in conjunction with Bord Iascaigh Mhara, with a view to early consultations with the industry.
