Charlie O'Connor
Question:245 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans his Department has to promote Ireland's EU Presidency with the Irish public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2797/04]
View answerTuesday, 3 February 2004
Questions (116)
Written answers
The programme for the Irish term of the EU Presidency, which includes a statement of the objectives and the work programme on agriculture, was published on 18 December 2003 and was officially launched by the Taoiseach on 1 January 2004. The programme was also put on the Presidency website http:// www.EU2004.ie.
I will continue to avail of every opportunity through my attendance and addresses at agricultural and rural development fora in Ireland and abroad, press conferences following each meeting of the Council of Ministers, statements to the press, updating the Presidency website and other appropriate means to keep the public informed of progress on the programme.
The holding of EU meetings in Ireland will also present opportunities for bringing the Presidency to the attention of the Irish public. In the agriculture area, meetings that are planned, include an informal meeting of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, the special committee on agriculture, chief veterinary officers and directors of European agricultural guidance and guarantee fund paying agencies.