Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 10: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action he has taken to promote the operation of the small scale local abattoir; if he has instructed the Food Safety Authority Ireland to support the development of the small abattoir; the further action he has taken to promote the sale and consumption of locally produced food in local shops other than supermarkets and in Government Departments and agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36284/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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My Department has awarded financial support to the small meat sector, which includes small slaughterhouses and low-throughput meat establishments. Following a call for applications in December 2007, and a detailed selection and evaluation process in 2008, a total of €7.8m has been awarded to 31 enterprises. This funding will assist food business operators in the sector to improve efficiency, add quality and value to products, produce new and innovative products and develop new markets. Technical support for artisan meat businesses is also available through a dedicated meat technologist employed by Teagasc. The technologist works with food businesses and Teagasc and other institutes to ensure best knowledge, skills and technology is made available through training, advice and technical support.

As regards the Deputy's enquiry about the FSAI, I should point out that the FSAI is an independent body (under the aegis of the Minister for Health and Children) whose remit is to ensure that food produced, distributed or marketed in the State meets the highest standards of food safety and hygiene. The FSAI Artisan Forum provides a platform for discussion between artisan food producers and the FSAI, which addresses food safety and hygiene issues for small artisan food producers without compromising legislative requirements and objectives.

Bord Bia, under the aegis of my Department, is the state agency responsible for market development of food, seafood, drink and horticulture at home and abroad. State Aid rules preclude the use of origin to promote products and Bord Bia has a comprehensive set of marketing and promotional programmes in place, which have been developed in consultation with key stakeholders in the food industry, at a local and national level which take account of the State aid restrictions. Bord Bia's Quality Assurance schemes for products, such as beef, lamb and horticulture, are well known and provide information on origin.

This year Bord Bia has also introduced a "Best in Season" promotional campaign for locally grown produce promotes seasonal local produce. This highlights to consumers which fruit and vegetables are available in Ireland and when they are in season. The key messages include freshness, taste and health benefits. Press and digital media and a best in season website (bestinseason.ie) have focused on strawberries in June, new season potatoes in July and seasonally available vegetables and potatoes in a "back to school" theme for September on emphasising the important role play in a healthy balanced diet for children, particularly as the winter months approach.

The Good Practice Standard and Flag for Farmers' Markets which was launched by Minister Sargent at the Bloom 2009 Festival encourages farmers markets to provide market access to locally produced in-season produce. Farmer's Markets, which are active in the local community, promote the development of loyal customer base and are essential in guaranteeing regular cash flow for small businesses. Public Procurement must be in accordance with guidelines set out by the Department of Finance. Interest for local goods generally depends on the financial level of the contract.