I propose to take Questions Nos. 792 and 793 together.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is a statutory body established under the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act, 1998 (as amended by the British-Irish Agreement Act, 1999). Although, the FSAI is funded through my Department, it is independent in the exercise of its functions.
The FSAI’s key function is the enforcement of food legislation which is carried out on behalf of the FSAI by a network of official agencies under service contract, including the Local Authorities.
I am aware that the FSAI has been in discussion with the Local Authorities and the County and City Management Association (CCMA) for some time about the delivery of official food controls by the Local Authority Veterinary Service (LAVS), to ensure that this service is delivered in an efficient and effective manner.
My Department is keen to ensure that the FSAI and the Local Authorities agree on the immediate priority of ensuring that the LAVS continue to fulfil official controls by way of a renewed service contract that will facilitate stability in service, beyond the current one which expires at the end of June 2020. My Department is being kept advised by the FSAI of progress in this regard.