asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries why the review body on the operation of intervention does not include a representative of Córas Beostoic agus Feola; why only one representative of the fresh meat trade is included; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Intervention Review Body.
4.
The purpose of the review has particular reference to the effect of our beef intervention and slaughter premium systems in supporting the prices of cattle at the different stages of production; and the review body is to report on possible modifications and improvements with a view to ensuring that there is an equitable distribution of the benefits of the systems among all producers of cattle.
I consider the composition of the review body to be the best suited for its particular purpose. The functions of CBF lie in the field of promoting the beef export trade.
Does the Minister believe that the review body would function better in the absence of any representative of Córas Beostoic and in the absence of any representative of the fresh meat trade? Is that what the Minister is saying?
We have a representative from the beef trade and the composition of the review body is as good as we could pick.
Is the Minister aware that people who have agreements with the factories are uneasy because they think the factories are too well represented on the review body? I know people who are not prepared to come forward. They have a grievance but they are afraid they would be victimised because of the representation on the review body.
The Deputy knows the composition of the board. He knows the names of the members. How can he make that statement when he knows that there is only one representative of the meat trade on the review body?
Question No. 5.
People are afraid to come forward.
There is no reason for that.
I have asked them to come forward. I have appealed to them to come forward.
There are too many political hacks on the board.
The Deputy is describing as hacks people who are not in the House and who are good enough to serve on a body like this. I certainly disagree with him.