Vol. 507 No. 4
32 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the huge growth and importance of the retail food, restaurant and delicatessen sectors; his views on whether these sectors should be rep resented on the board of An Bord Bia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16897/99]
In my response to Question No. 89 on 25 May, about the composition of the board of An Bord Bia, I made it clear that the board is not a vocational one. With certain self-explanatory exceptions all of its members are appointed in a personal capacity and a number have direct experience in dealing with the retail sector.
I am, of course, fully aware that the retail and food service sectors constitute an integral and important part of the food chain and these sectors have an input into the deliberations of the board and are an important element of its promotional programme.
I am satisfied that the board works closely with, and is fully supportive of, both sectors. A good example of this is the recent Feile Bia which was developed in conjunction with and sponsored by An Bord Bia.
