asked the Minister for Agriculture the structural framework envisaged for AnCOT.

Subject to the requirements of the controlling legislation, the structural organisation of An Chomhairle Oiliúna Talmhaíochta is a matter for consideration by the board of An Chomhairle.

Could the Minister give any reason for the delay? Surely he realises it is important to get this board functioning as soon as possible?

I agree it is necessary to get the board functioning as quickly as possible but it is also necessary to get it functioning in the best way possible and it is the pursuit of that objective that has occasioned the delay. I can assure the Deputy there will not be any avoidable delay.