Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

66. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the position regarding the Beef Taskforce; if he has received the report from the Beef Taskforce; when the report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51714/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Beef Taskforce was established on foot of the beef sector agreement of 15th September 2019.  The Beef Taskforce's remit as set out in its terms of reference was to monitor the implementation of the actions arising from that agreement. The Taskforce was to meet at least quarterly from October 2019 for a period of one year after which the Taskforce’s progress was to be reviewed.  However, progress was delayed in 2020 due to COVID-19.

As the Deputy may be aware, I requested the independent Chair of the Beef Taskforce, to provide a report to me on the progress to date of the Taskforce, which he has done.  I will complete my analysis of the final report, after which I will make the necessary decision on future strategic engagement with the Sector.

The beef sector agreement contained 38 specific actions. Of these 38 actions, 30 were finite actions which had timelines attached for completion. The remaining eight are ongoing actions, which by their nature, are long term and will continue outside of the context of the Beef Taskforce.  All documents from the Beef Taskforce meetings, including minutes and updated progress reports, are published on the Gov.ie website.

It should be noted that the Taskforce was set up in response to the issues that prevailed in the sector in the late summer of 2019 and had very specific actions to address. It is conceivable that it may not be the most suitable vehicle for addressing those that exist in 2021 and beyond. I will make a decision on this shortly.

Effective strategic engagement across the beef sector is crucial to its development in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable way, that works for all actors in the supply chain.  

The Deputy can be assured that my Department and I will continue to support constructive strategic engagement within the sector, as well as measures aimed at strengthening the supply chain, including support for Producer Organisations, and interventions aimed at supporting productive and environmental efficiency for beef farmers in the future. I am also progressing  work to deliver the primary legislation required to established the office of the National Food Ombudsman. 

 I believe this office will play a key role in bringing much-needed transparency to the sector.