asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the consultations entered into in relation to the agricultural content of the Fourth Programme for Economic and Social Development; and when a final report on the Third Programme is likely to be presented.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Economics Development Programmes.
34.
The agricultural content of the Fourth Programme will relate mainly to the changes necessary to adapt our agricultural policy to the common policies of the EEC and in this context close consultation has been maintained with agricultural and other interested organisations. This consultation is continuing.
It is expected that the final review of the Third Programme will be published within a few months.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the Third Programme will expire on the 31st December? Can he state whether there will be a further programme to take over from then on? Also, if there is to be any delay, what is the reason for such delay?
The production of a programme such as this is of the utmost importance. Because of our entry to the EEC and the changes that will result from that, it is necessary to have consultations not only with the farming organisations and other bodies but also between the parties concerned. There are various other Departments concerned also but I can assure the Deputy there is no unavoidable delay.
Have the Department not had since May last to have these consultations? The programme should be out now if it is to be operative from the 1st January?
The publication of the programme is a matter for the Department of Finance. I am merely indicating to the Deputy some of the difficulties involved in drawing up a programme of this nature.
Instead of talking of getting out the Fourth Programme, the Parliamentary Secretary should have said "getting out of the Third Programme".
We wish to ensure that there will be a proper programme.
The last two have been complete failures.