Gay Mitchell
Question:80 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will outline his role as Minister with responsibility for the food industry. [11489/01]
Written Answers - Ministerial Responsibilities.
Under the Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order, 2001, my colleague the Minister of State, Deputy Davern has been assigned specific functions in relation to the food industry. These responsibilities include the development of the food industry and monitoring of the food industry under the national development plan. Statutory responsibility for matters relating to food safety rest with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.
The food industry has made a significant contribution to the economic well-being of the economy in recent years and a comprehensive strategy is in place for the development of the industry over the coming years. The food initiatives in the national development plan place an emphasis on added value, market orientation and competitiveness. The provision of £282 million encompasses capital investment, research and development, marketing and promotion and human resources. These initiatives continue with and build upon the integrated approach adopted in the last structural fund round and take on board the recommendations contained in the reports of the Food Industry Development Group and the Agri-Food 2001 Committee.