Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 5

Written Answers. - Agriculture Survey.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

119 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his attention has been drawn to the findings of a recent survey undertaken by AgriAware which found that over 45% of respondents felt that the image of agriculture had disimproved; the steps he has taken to promote a better image for farming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25109/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

I am aware of the recently published findings of the AgriAware survey on perceptions of agriculture.

In general the survey was very positive in relation to the perception of Irish agriculture and Irish agricultural products. Over 60% of those surveyed ranked agriculture of vital importance to our economy. A substantial majority of respondents, over 85%, indicated that the image of agriculture is positive. While almost 46% of those surveyed felt the image had disimproved in the last five years, the majority, over 54%, felt it had improved or remained unchanged. The reasons identified in the survey for the perception of a disimproved image varied from disease scares, pollution-environmental damage to

modernisation and technology.

My Department is and has been has been active in addressing these issues, for example, in its work in promoting animal health, food safety, greater traceability and greater participation in the rural environment protection scheme. The farming community and its representative bodies also have a key responsibility in maintaining the good image of the sector.