197 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on the projections of a report that there will be only 20,000 full-time farmers in ten years time; if Government policy will involve an acceptance of this projected figure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8212/02]

It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the report of the agri-food 2010 committee. This committee was established in 1999 with the following terms of reference: "To propose a strategy for the development of Irish agriculture and food over the next decade, following the agreement on Agenda 2000, and in the light of the changes and challenges which are likely to evolve nationally and internationally over that period."

Taking existing trends and other factors into account the committee, in its report published in March 2000, estimated that there would be "around 20,000 full-time farmers, 60,000 part-time farmers, and a transitional group of about 20,000 by approximately 2010".

In response to the committee's report and after consultation with relevant interests, the Government published the agri-food 2010 plan of action in August 2000. The plan of action recognised that the committee's projections of farmer numbers are tentative estimates, dependent on a range of assumptions, and are not in any sense suggested targets. The plan of action states clearly the Government's commitment to the development of a core of full time farmers earning viable returns on both capital and labour.