Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Feb 1993

Vol. 426 No. 5

Written Answers. - Teagasc's Role.

Peter Barry

Ceist:

230 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if, following the reform the Common Agricultural Policy and changes arising out of the GATT negotiations, there are plans to reorientate Teagasc's role, in particular, pertaining to its advisory training and research services; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. J. Walsh)

I understand from Teagasc that, in response to the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy and any further policy changes arising from the GATT negotiations, an appropriate reorientation of advisory, training and research services is currently underway. In particular the services will, in future, be directed more towards maximising income and productive employment through

—better quality produce, greater animal productivity and rigid cost control in all spheres of farming and

—diversifying farm production and establishing rural business.

I recently launched a special Common Agricultural Policy reform advisory service which has been established by Teagasc. This service is aimed at ensuring that farmers are fully aware of details of the reform package and that they can maximise income from their various farming activities.