asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the extreme concern and anxiety regarding the decision to reduce staff on seed potato certification and the disastrous effect this could have on the seed potato industry in County Donegal; if he will reconsider his decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Donegal Seed Potato Industry.
86.
The decision to reduce the number of officers engaged on potato duties was taken following a review of staffing requirements in this sector. The review concluded that all necessary certification, control, legislative and developmental functions could be adequately carried out by a smaller number of officers. The surplus staff were redeployed to other work. Staffing requirements for this and all areas of my Department are subject to continuous review.