As I stated in my reply to Question No. 73 of 10 October 2000 my Department has put proposals to the three bodies which had been approved to inspect organic crop produce under Regulation 2091-92, Demeter Standards Limited, Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association and Organic Trust, for a unified inspection and certification system which will achieve this objective while allowing the three bodies to continue to operate their own arrangements, where their own members are concerned, as heretofore. There is no suggestion that the three bodies should cease to exist. I have already expressed my appreciation of the contribution they have made to the development of the organic sector and I look forward to working with them in the future.
Since putting its proposals to the three bodies, my Department has since had a number of meetings and other contacts with them to give further clarification. Furthermore, at their request, my Department has agreed to assist with funding to engage a facilitator to assist the three bodies in their negotiations with one another. A considerable amount of time and effort has been expended to date in endeavouring to assist the three bodies to arrive at a resolution of issues associated with the establishment of a unified inspection and certification system. I understand the three bodies are still considering my Department's proposals and I am hopeful for an early and positive response. As the new Regulation 1804/1999 has already come into effect, final decisions on the practical aspects of its application must be taken as a matter of urgency.
In relation to the question of standards to apply in Ireland, discussions have been held with the three organic farming bodies. A number of groups of organic producers have made approaches to my Department and discussions have also taken place with other bodies in the public and private sectors. Following these discussions, my Department has moved significantly to address a number of points which appeared to give rise to concern and has indicated that other issues may be considered subsequently by the organic development committee which is being established in accordance with the recommendation of the AgriFood 2010 committee. As a result, additional standards to those required by EU regulations will now apply to the organic livestock sector in Ireland.