Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2024
433. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number, total value, and duration of each contract for services purchased from an organisation (details supplied) by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3702/24]
View answer434. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine how many tenders from alternative service providers were received for the services now being provided to his Department by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3773/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 433 and 434 together.
The named organisation is the only body approved by my Department to carry out performance recording, assessment of genetic value and publication of breeding values for dairy and beef cattle in Ireland. No other organisation has applied for similar approval.
My Department approves an annual programme of services and activities with the organisation in relation to those genetic evaluation services, operating in accordance with a service level agreement. The funding by my Department to the organisation in 2024 in relation to those services will comprise a total of €2.9 million.
In addition, my Department has a provision of circa €6 million for National genotyping related activities, which includes the National Genotyping Programme funded equally by the Exchequer, farmers and industry and the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme.
