Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 23 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 5

Written Answers. - Organic Farming.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

59 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when he will announce the inspection and certification agent for organic production; if a date has been set for the first meeting of the organic development committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27153/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

I am preparing delegated legislation in the form of a statutory instrument to implement EU regulations governing organic production and processing. It will provide for inspection and certification arrangements. In the meantime I have extended until 31 March 2001 the interim arrangement under which inspection and certification by three private organic farming bodies is deemed to satisfy requirements. The first meeting of the Organic Development Committee will be held on 27 November 2000.