The report of the independent Estimates review committee drew attention to the duplication of resources in the promotion and marketing of Irish exports and that savings could be achieved in the short-term by closer co-operation between Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Bord Glas. In light of this, the Government decided that the functions of Bord Glas and Bord Bia should be merged. A general scheme to effect this was approved by Government in July last and drafting of the legislation is under way. A mechanism has since been put in place for formal co-operation between Bord Bia and Enterprise Ireland. In drafting this general scheme, our Department consulted with the stakeholders including organisations and institutions representative of the horticulture sector who were asked to submit their views for inclusion in the legislation. The replies received would suggest that the main areas of concern are representation on the board, a dedicated subsidiary board for horticulture and assurances that the current functions of Bord Glas, as these relate to horticultural production, including fruit and vegetables and the amenity sector, will not be overlooked in the new body.
It is our intention to transfer all of the current functions of Bord Glas, including those relating to the horticulture sector, to the merged body and I believe the combined expertise of an amalgamated body can bring together the synergies necessary to promote and market the entire food and horticultural industries, with continued success at home and abroad.
