David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 356: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the measures her Department has implemented since 2004 or intends to implement in 2005 to address the issue of food poverty and the lack of affordable food for those on low incomes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14557/05]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 357: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of local food co-operatives in operation here; the measures her Department intends to take to encourage the establishment of more local food co-operatives to facilitate access to food in disadvantaged areas and to address the issue of food poverty and the lack of affordable food for those on low incomes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14558/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 and 357 together.

As Minister for Agriculture and Food I have no role in direct provision of food or in the planning of food distribution outlets or in providing general income support for those on low incomes. Primary responsibility for driving the social inclusion agenda, including the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion, lies with my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs.