Vol. 561 No. 3
94 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has satisfied himself that the agriculture industry here is in a position to compete effectively on a world-wide basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4200/03]
The competitiveness of the Irish agri-food sector is vital to its ongoing viability and therefore this was a major issue that was addressed in the Agri-Food 2010 report. Many of the action points in the subsequent plan of action were designed to enhance Ireland's competitiveness.
As competitiveness is not a static concept, I am conscious of the ongoing need to maintain the competitive ability of all major sectors. I have initiated three studies to monitor this issue and to see how the Irish agri-food sector is doing vis-à-vis our major competitors. I launched the publication of Professor Gerry Boyle's study at the start of this year and I am hopeful that two further studies in the area will be forthcoming later in the year from Professor Alan Matthews of Trinity College and from Teagasc.
95 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his strategic short, medium and long-term plans for the agriculture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4201/03]
My long-term plan for Irish agriculture is laid out in the Agri-Food 2010 Plan of Action as this formed the Government's response to the report of the Agri-Food 2010 Committee. I will be revisiting this area later this year to ensure its ongoing relevance and to take into account developments since the main report of Agri-Food 2010 Committee was released in particular the mid-term review of the CAP and the current WTO round.
