asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he has implemented the recommendation in paragraph 314 of the majority report of the Committee of Inquiry on Post-Emergency Agricultural Policy that an agricultural inquiry and advisory council be set up; and, if so, if he will state (a) the name, qualifications and occupation of the chairman and of each member of the council; (b) the remuneration, if any, proposed to be paid to the members; (c) the terms of reference and the powers of the council, and (d) whether the council has been appointed as a permanent body.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Proposed Agricultural Council.
I am giving effect to this recommendation but in a modified way. Instead of setting up an inquiry and advisory council, I have referred the investigation of certain of the outstanding matters to a Departmental committee. The committee consists of two agricultural inspectors (one of whom is chairman) and an assistant principal officer, with such additional member or members as may be added from time to time having regard to the subject under investigation. The three officers referred to will, while serving on the committee, each receive an allowance in addition to the salary of his grade. The allowance to the chairman is at the rate of £200 a year, inclusive, and to each of the other two members at the rate of £150 a year, inclusive. The terms of reference will, of course, vary with the subjects to be inquired into. It is not intended that the committee will be permanent.
Does the Minister consider that civil servants, who are not free agents and who have no practical experience as a matter of fact, are the best people to give advice on practical matters?
It is the most expeditious way, I can assure the Deputy, of getting advice.
Not the soundest way.
I am not so sure about that either.