Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 September 2019
172. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the national food innovation hub has been completed; if not, when it is expected to be completed; the estimated cost of the project; the amount spent to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38028/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the strategic recommendation in Food Wise 2025, Teagasc plan to construct a National Food Innovation Hub at their Food Research Centre in Moorepark, Co. Cork. The principal objective is to create a business innovation network involving dairy companies and research institutes with a focus on food, health and nutrition. Teagasc is proactively working to progress the project in compliance with the Public Spending Code and Public Procurement requirements.
I am advised by Teagasc that planning permission has been received and, following a competitive tendering exercise, a main contractor has been selected. The development is expected to be completed in the final quarter of 2020. The estimated cost is €8.8m, funded from my Department’s capital allocation on a phased basis. The amount allocated to date is €900,000.
