Dáil Éireann - Volume 482 - 18 November, 1997

Written Answers. - Agri-Industry Expansion.

144. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, he will take to enhance Ireland's opportunities for the expansion of its agri-industries in an enlarged European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19678/97]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh): The current development strategy for the food industry is set out in the food sub-programme of the operational programme for industrial development. The sub-programme covers the period 1994-99, reflecting the current programming period for Structural Funds. In devising a new strategy for the next Structural Funds period, regard will be had to all relevant factors including enlargement of the EU, the next WTO Round and further CAP reform.