Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
926. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the provision of a Teagasc representative for the tillage sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47988/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe composition of the board of Teagasc, the Teagasc Authority, is prescribed in the First Schedule of the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act of 1988. While there is no provision reserving appointments for individual sectors, the Act provides for strong stakeholder representation from across the agri-food industry within an overall cap of 11 Board members .
It includes the appointment of representatives from the following nominating bodies: the Irish Farmers Association, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, Macra na Feirme and the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society. Additionally, five positions on the Authority are filled following a competitive process overseen by the Public Appointments Service in respect of persons engaged in agriculture etc.
The tillage sector is a vital component of the agri-food industry, and I am very committed to ongoing stakeholder engagement with tillage representatives on the key issues facing the sector. I know from experience that Teagasc is equally committed to working closely with tillage stakeholders. In terms of Teagasc's direct engagement with the tillage sector, it has an active Tillage Stakeholder Consultative Group with 14 external members comprising representatives from tillage farmers, seed trade, end users and the drinks industry.
