Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 26: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has been briefed by the CEO of Teagasc on the recent re-organisation of Teagasc; his views on the potential impact on Irish horticulture research services in view of the proposed closure of the Kinsealy Research Centre, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23138/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Agriculture, (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988, confers on Teagasc statutory responsibility for the provision of education, advisory and training 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.

I am aware that Teagasc commenced a significant 'Change Programme' in 2009 to improve efficiencies and streamline services. The Programme involves the disposal of surplus assets, a significant reduction in the number of research and advisory locations including closure of Kinsealy Research Centre and reductions in staff numbers. Implementation has resulted in Teagasc becoming a leaner, more efficient and focused organisation. Teagasc has also developed a comprehensive Action Plan under the 'Croke Park Agreement' detailing a series of Actions to cut costs and improve efficiencies in the delivery of services. Progress Reports are submitted to the Department on a quarterly basis.

Teagasc has advised that the re-location of services from Kinsealy to the Ashtown Research Centre will not impact negatively on their support for the horticulture sector. The role of horticultural research at Kinsealy has diminished significantly and most of the 37 permanent staff currently based there are not involved in Horticulture Research and could operate from other sites. I understand that Teagasc has published a new Horticultural Plan designed to provide improved support to the sector. The Plan sets out how Teagasc will support the horticultural industry from Ashtown and other facilities and in particular through closer co-operation with producer clients to undertake specific research at their facilities.