Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)

I asked this question, given that Teagasc's procedures and operations have already been reviewed. I do not doubt that the recommendations will be implemented. However, the McCarthy report states that there is scope for reducing Teagasc's staff numbers by a minimum of 250 in the short term by rationalisation of agricultural colleges and locations, reducing lower priority advisory and research activities, reducing administration and advisory services, the latter by 50%, reducing education and training functions by 30% and 20%, respectively, by 2011 and reviewing the network of offices.

If the economy is to get back on its feet, the research, administrative and support services provided by Teagasc will be necessary to ensure people operating in the rural economy have the advantage they require. I strongly suggest that the Minister of State should defend the services operated by Teagasc, particularly scientific research where McCarthy proposes that all research should be codified in one body. This will not necessarily assist in agricultural or agribusiness-related research and this should be revised and reviewed.

With regard to those people who are employed by Teagasc in the agricultural colleges, a question arises about their future if this report is implemented. I agree there is a budgetary process in train but I ask that this area be defended. If it is not defended, and we see post-budget in 2009 and 2010 a further reduction or diminution in the services operated by Teagasc, it will have untold consequences for the rural economy which we will not stand over.

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