Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the progress made to date in the implementation of the sheep industry development strategy recommendations; if a dedicated executive resource has been appointed; if so, what it consists of; if not, when it will be appointed and what it shall consist of; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32867/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The Sheep Industry Development Strategy Group issued its report in June 2006. This is a comprehensive study of the sheep industry which sets out a Development Plan for the industry contained in 37 recommendations. I decided that the best way to implement these recommendations was to set up an implementation body comprised of representatives of all sectors in the industry, including the relevant state bodies. It is chaired by Mr. John Malone, former Secretary General of my Department, who was also the author of the Strategy Group report. My Department is also providing administrative back up and I have informed the implementation body that I will provide whatever other assistance I can to help it pursue its objectives for the betterment of the industry. The implementation body held its inaugural meeting on 25th July and has continued its work since then.