Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 24 Feb 1999

Vol. 501 No. 1

Written Answers. - Agricultural Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

71 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has formulated a development plan for agriculture with particular reference to the need to sustain the livelihoods of farm families and to assure self sufficiency of product together with continued benefits to the economy arising from exports generated by the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5310/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh):

I am acutely aware of the need for good quality planning for the future of the agri-food sector. This sector is of enormous importance to the economy as a whole. Primary agriculture is more important to Ireland than to all other member states except Greece, and its contribution to GDP is twice the EU average. The agri-food sector as a whole (agriculture, food, drinks and tobacco) accounts for 13 per cent of GDP, and 12 per cent of employment and exports. Preserving the stability and growth of this sector is absolutely necessary for the well-being of our overall economy.

Last year a food industry development group was established and its report was published earl ier this month. The report examined the food industry's recent performance and looked at factors which would influence its future environment. It also analysed the various opportunities and challenges for the various sectors within the industry. The report identified attention to competitiveness and market orientation as key factors for future progress. It sets out the issues that need to be addressed to enhance capabilities in these areas. It recommends specific targets and foresees particularly strong growth in the prepared foods, drinks and food ingredients sectors. The report provided a very clear and precise blueprint for future development, and will certainly receive due consideration in the context of the new national development plan and the next round of structural funds.

My Department is currently preparing a White Paper on Rural Development which will deal with rural development as a multi-dimensional integrated process. The intention is that this paper will address rural development as a broad multifunctional process involving economic, social, cultural and environmental conditions which influence the quality of life of rural communities. The preparation of the paper has been marked with extensive consultation through the interdepartmental committee, country wide seminars, and written submissions from interested bodies and individuals.

Earlier this year the Government decided to establish an expert group on agriculture to look at the future of the sector. The group will be established once the Agenda 2000 decisions are made. It will also take on board the conclusions of the White Paper on Rural Development, which will be published in the next few months.

Taken together, these initiatives will ensure that coherent plans will be put in place to guide the development of the agriculture and food sectors as they face the challenges of the future.