(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will allocate responsibility for the promotion of pigmeat to CBF.

8.

(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture the role he sees for CBF in the future.

9.

(Limerick West) asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the statement made by the chairman of CBF on increased funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 to 9, inclusive, together.

The functions of the board of CBF are set out in the Córas Beostoic agus Feola Act, 1979, and at present I have no plans to alter those functions. I understand that the board are currently engaged in a major review of the policy which they will follow in the future in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.

The question of the funding of CBF from the Exchequer has to be considered in the context of the funds available for agriculture generally. The question of further funding from the levy on cattle and sheep is in the first instance a matter for the board.

As regards the possible extension of CBF's functions to cover pigmeat, the whole future development of the pigmeat sector is at present under review by the industry. How the State and its agencies can most effectively promote the future development of the industry will be considered in the context of the findings of this review and in consultation with the various interests involved.

(Limerick West): Will the Minister state if his Department would accept a request from CBF for increased funding if there was agreement by the other producers?

It is a matter that would be considered but, as I pointed out in my original reply, the decision would depend on the overall budgetary situation.

(Limerick West): Will the Minister indicate if there are any plans in his Department to strengthen the role of CBF? For instance, would he consider giving them a marketing role rather than a promotional role?

As I pointed out in my reply, CBF at present are undertaking a major review of their policies and strategies. That review has not yet been completed but I will be interested to read it.

Is the Minister aware of the serious difficulties encountered by people in the pig production industry? Will he agree that CBF have done a major job in the promotion of sheepmeat and beef since 1979? Further, will he agree there is a major opportunity, particularly in the American market, for Irish pigmeat? Does he not now see that this is an opportunity to give CBF responsibility in this area?

I am aware of the unfortunate situation with regard to pigmeat where no slaughtering plant is licensed to export to the United States because their standards are not up to scratch in that regard. That is something about which I worry. With regard to CBF's role in the pigmeat industry, some years ago it was suggested that they should have responsibility for the marketing of pigmeat as they have for beef and sheepmeat. However, that suggestion was resisted by people in the industry. Perhaps it is one of the factors that will emerge in the review that CBF are carrying out at the moment. Certainly the matter is worthy of consideration.

(Limerick West): In view of the Minister's positive response to our questioning, will he indicate to the House that there will be CBF after the review?

I do not want to get into an argument here. I have always said there is a role for CBF and I deny anything to the contrary.

10.