Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 November 2010
322 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the purpose and role of the section in his Department entitled “Sugar” in the current edition of the State directory; the number employed and the costs associated with this particular section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43917/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraIssues relating to sugar are dealt with by the Crops Policy Section of the Crops Policy, Production and Safety Division in my Department.
The Section has responsibility for the administration of EU and national controls in the wider crops sector. The role also includes promoting and defending national interests with respect to the EU market management policies for arable crops, olive oil and tobacco. Sugar is included in these crops. Officials from this Section represent Ireland at various EU meetings, including Council Working Groups and the Management Committee for the Common Organisation of Agricultural Markets.
This Section was the main focus of Department work in the implementation of the EU sugar regime and in the operation of the compensation arrangements, once Greencore took the decision to close and avail of the EU scheme. While the bulk of the work is complete, work is on-going to fulfil the EU conditions attached.
There are a total of four Officials assigned to the Section. Other than salaries there are very limited costs associated with attending meetings.
