Vol. 436 No. 7
64 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the total number of people that are estimated to be employed in the food industry; the proposals, if any, he has to expand and develop the food industry over the next five years; the possible job opportunities that may arise; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The total number of people that are estimated to be employed in the food industry is around 40,000.
As I announced last July, the Government, having considered the report of the expert group on the Food Industry, authorised me to draw up a new national programme for the food industry. That programme will be a sub-programme within the industry operational programme in the new round of Structural Funds. Details of its main features are contained in the National Development Plan which was published in October. In summary, these provide for a comprehensive development programme aimed at achieving the output and employment targets recommended by the expert group and involving substantial financial assistance in the areas of capital investment, research and development, marketing and promotion and training.
