Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)
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Question 124: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans for the enhancement of research and development within the agrifood sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40446/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Research and Development are central to the future well being of the agri-food sector and I am committed to building the Knowledge Economy in the Agri-Food sector. The important role of the sector is recognised in the Government Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006-2013 and Research and Development is also central to the strategy outlined in the Agri-Vision Action Plan, which I launched earlier this year.

The Action Plan focuses on research in sustainable agricultural production, research in food quality, safety and nutrition, especially food for health and well-being, research on product innovation as well as research on forestry and on the rural economy. The priority is to ensure that the whole industry will operate to the highest standards, built on a strong foundation of modern scientific knowledge, skills and innovative practices so that it remains competitive in the global marketplace.

In line with the priority which I attach to the research area, I have allocated a record €97 million this year to research programmes and activity undertaken by Teagasc, third level institutions and directly by the Department and this will continue to be a priority funding area for my Department under the next National Development Plan.