Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2004
28 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her vision for the future of the agricultural sector in the meat, dairy and cereal sectors; the extent to which she sees each discipline develop in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24521/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is important to focus on the need for long-term planning for the meat, cereal and dairy sectors, as these account for the majority of farm output in this country. The key is to have appropriate policies and support mechanisms in place to maximise the potential of these sectors and to ensure that they meet the requirements of the domestic market and are competitive in an international context.
One of my priorities is to ensure that these sectors develop and prosper. This covers a range of issues such as efficiency at production and processing level, EU support regimes, international trading conditions and, in particular, the ability to meet changing consumer requirements. The ultimate objective is to ensure that these sectors add maximum value for the benefit of those directly involved and for the economy in general.
It is with a view to continuing the planning process for the long-term future of these vital sectors that a group was established to set out a vision for the agriculture and food sector over the coming decade. This group, referred to as the agri vision 2015 committee, has been asked to review the recommendations of the agri-food 2010 report in the context of developments since the report was completed. This committee is expected to report shortly.
