Vol. 541 No. 2
325 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the extent to which his Department is prepared for the introduction of the euro; if he will ensure that the replies to future parliamentary questions show all monetary values in euro and pounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21896/01]
My Department has prepared a detailed euro changeover plan which sets out the general principles and policies of the Department in relation to the changeover to the euro as well as detailed plans in respect of each division within the Department and each State body under the aegis of the Department. A copy of this plan is available to the public and is also accessible on the Department's website.
Each division within the Department and each State body under the aegis of the Department is required to provide a regular progress report on the implementation of the plans. The latest progress reports are in respect of the period ending 31 August 2001. Progress to date is satisfactory and the plan is being implemented on schedule.
I have asked my Department to arrange that, except where the context clearly requires otherwise, between now and 1 January 2002, and for a reasonable period thereafter, all monetary values in replies to parliamentary questions will be shown in euro and Irish pounds.
