Vol. 415 No. 1
200 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will outline (a) the progress of the special organic farming unit in operation since 1990 and (b) the success of this special unit to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
203 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if, in regard to organic pig production, there are standards contained in (a) the Council of Europe Conventions (b) European Community legislation and (c) departmental regulations and recommendations; and if so, if he will give details of these.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 200 and 203 together.
An organic farming unit was set up in my Department in 1990 to develop all aspects of organic farming. To date this unit has been allocated £950,000. The following initiatives have been supported: (i) the establishment of an organic farming module in UCDs degree course; (ii) the establishment by Teagasc of an organic research and development programme at Johnstown Castle and a training demonstration unit at Kildalton College; (iii) a market survey by CBF on the market at home and abroad for organic meat; (iv) a SFADCo programme to develop organic farming in its areas; and (v) development by the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association (IOFGA) of its organisational structures.
In addition the unit has produced an information leaflet and, with Teagasc, a video on organic farming. A pilot scheme of grant aid for investments in organic farming enterprises was completed in 1991. Some £88,000 was paid to 32 organic producers, co-ops and firms under this scheme.
With regard to organic pig production, there are at present no standards contained in Council of Europe conventions or European Community or domestic legislation. However, the EC Commission is committed to bringing forward proposals on organic animal production by 1 July this year. I expect that standards for organic pig production will be included in the Commission's proposals.
