Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:53 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has reconvened the Horticulture Industry Forum since coming into office in June 1997; and if he intends to expand the role of the forum. [15484/97]
Written Answers. - Horticulture Industry Forum.
As the Deputy is aware, the Horticulture Industry Forum which was set up towards the end of 1995 is an initiative to create greater co-ordination, co-operation and communication within the horticultural industry, with particular emphasis on closer linkages between those in the industry comprising the "supply chain". It is also designed to create closer and more dynamic linkages between the statutory bodies — i.e. An Bord Glas, Teagasc and the Department of Agriculture and Food — and the various sectors of the industry — i.e. growers, wholesalers, retailers and their representatives. The forum functions as a sub-committee of An Bord Glas under section 14 of the An Bord Glas Act, 1990.
The forum lapsed on the expiry of the term of office of the board of An Bord Glas in December 1996 but the incoming board decided in January 1997 that the forum would continue to operate as heretofore. The forum has met once during 1997 and a further meeting is expected to be held shortly.
As the forum has a very broad remit it can be flexible in the matters it examines. Therefore I do not consider it necessary to expand the role of the forum.