Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 3 Apr 2003

Vol. 564 No. 3

Written Answers - Food Production.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

49 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has plans to encourage increased production of value added and ready to eat meals as recommended by Bord Bia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8844/03]

While the production of commodity products has been the mainstay of the Irish food industry, it is generally accepted there has been an over reliance on this sector. The Agri-Food 2010 report highlighted the need for Irish food companies to move further along the value added route and increase their penetration of high value market segments. The report identified the prepared consumer foods, food ingredients, functional foods and the high value speciality sectors as presenting the best growth opportunities. In the marketplace itself consumer trends and needs are constantly evolving and changing.

Changing household structures and lifestyles have led to an increased demand for more convenience foods and the food industry must position itself to meet these changes and demands. Indeed there is clear evidence that this is so as export statistics for 2002 demonstrate. The prepared consumer foods sector is the fastest growing sector in the Irish food industry with exports increasing by 10% in 2002 to €1.8 billion. The Food Agency Co-operation Council, established under the aegis of my Department to promote the fullest possible co-operation between the agencies involved in the food industry, has been proactive in this area and has recently launched a comprehensive, user-friendly guide to market-led new product development in the food and drink industry. This publication provides guidance in relation to new product development best practice. It is also a useful directory on state services available in this area. The guide will be promulgated widely to the food industry.

In addition, my Department, in co-operation with the relevant State agencies, is working closely with the food industry to encourage increased production of value added and ready to eat meals. Significant funding is being provided under the national development plan to improve the competitiveness, market orientation and innovative capability of the food industry through capital investment, marketing and promotion and research measures.

Top
Share