Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

This is a replica of questions on this industry that I and other Members have tabled over many years. To what extent, if any, has the Minister engaged with the stakeholders in the beef, lamb, pigmeat, poultry and dairy sectors with a view to identifying specific targets and employment increases that could be gained as a result? To what degree, if any, has it been possible to determine in the present economic climate precise targets for expansion in respect of volume, which is most important as the Minister has correctly pointed out, as opposed to merely relying on price increases? Is it intended to set out specific targets in this area? It is generally accepted that the growth areas of the economy at present will be the means by which the country can work its way out of its present difficulties.

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