Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 199: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the potential to realise savings from the rationalisation of Teagasc offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36838/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Under the Agriculture, (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988, Teagasc has statutory responsibility for the provision of education, advisory and research services to the agriculture sector. It is a matter for Teagasc and its Board to prioritise activities in the delivery of these services and to allocate its resources in accordance with these priorities. Ministerial responsibility is confined to matters of policy in accordance with the Act and the Minister does not interfere in the day-to-day operations of Teagasc.

Teagasc is currently implementing a major 'Change Programme' 2009 - 2013 to address the need for significant resource rationalisation arising from ongoing budgetary challenges and to reorganise the organisation to meet the significant challenges that lie ahead. The Programme involves the closure of up to 40 local advisory offices, a reduction in research land resources, staff reductions and prioritisation of programme activities. The decision to close particular offices and concentrate the delivery of services at fewer locations is an operational matter for Teagasc and its Board. The offices are either leased premises with annual rental costs or are owned by Teagasc.