Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
959. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider a review of the current Bord Bia criteria and requirements of Irish vegetable growers registered with the food body (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48800/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraBord Bia's commitment to sustainability, and in particular to the sustainability of the Irish food, drink and horticulture sector is manifested through the development and continued evolution of the Origin Green programme, which in 2022 celebrated its 10th year.
Irish vegetable growers, through their membership of the Bord Bia Horticulture Sustainable Quality Assurance Scheme, form part of Origin Green, demonstrating the credentials at producer level. The Origin Green programme enables Ireland's food industry to set and achieve measurable sustainability targets that respect the environment. It is about measuring and improving on an ongoing basis, with independent accreditation and verification built into every stage of the supply chain, including at primary producer level.
The issues raised by the Deputy are not policy matters that fall under my remit, rather, operational matters for Bord Bia, the independent State Body. The Deputy is invited to contact Bord Bia directly at the agreed Oireachtas email contact address: info@bordbia.ie.
