asked the Minister for Agriculture what facets of agricultural research have to date been transferred to An Foras Talúntais; and what agricultural research is still retained under the jurisdiction of his Department.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Research.
13.
Johnstown Castle Agricultural College, Grange Farm (County Meath) and peatland experimental centres at Glenamoy (County Mayo), Derrybrennan (County Kildare) and Clonsast (Offaly), which were formerly used by the Department of Agriculture for research on soils, crops, grassland, husbandry, animal husbandry and peatland utilisation, have been transferred to An Foras Talúntais.
My Department retains Backweston Farm (County Dublin) and the Cereal Station, Ballinacurra, County Cork, for work on cereal breeding and seed propagation.
Is it ultimately intended to turn over all facets of the service to An Foras Talúntais?
The Minister for Agriculture from time to time has the right in accordance with the provisions of the Act to determine that question, and the decision I have made here is the decision which has been conveyed in reply to the Deputy's question. What may happen in the future in regard to the institutions that have been retained is a matter on which I cannot give the Deputy information.
Could the Minister indicate when he would have any information on that subject?
I have not the faintest notion.
That is very helpful to me. Thank you very much—a most courteous Minister.