Vol. 561 No. 4
229 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the measures as outlined in the review of Estimates report which have been implemented by his Department to date; the measures he proposes to implement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4474/03]
The independent Estimates review committee was commissioned by the Minister for Finance to advise him on the Estimates process for 2003. The report of the committee contained a range of recommendations which were reflected in the Abridged Estimates Volume for 2003, published last November.
In so far as my Department is concerned, the recommendations provide for improved efficiencies in the area of research and testing, increased disease levies, the phasing out of State support for the disposal of meat and bonemeal and reduced grant aid for Bord Bia and Bord Glas, with a view to the amalgamation of the two bodies in the longer term to achieve greater efficiencies in the promotion of Irish produce.
