416 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of the sheep strategy report; if she will provide funding for the implementation of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36079/06]

The Sheep Industry Development Strategy Group issued its report in June 2006. This is a comprehensive study of the sheep industry which sets out a Development Plan for the industry contained in 37 recommendations. I decided that the best way to implement these recommendations was to set up an implementation body comprised of representatives of all sectors in the industry, including the relevant state bodies. It is chaired by Mr John Malone, former Secretary General of my Department, who was also the author of the Strategy Group report.

Implementation of the Strategy Group's recommendations depends largely on the commitment to change and the input of the various sectors of the industry itself. I have informed the implementation body that I will provide whatever funding and other assistance I can to help the implementation of its findings for the betterment of the industry.

The implementation body held its inaugural meeting on 25th July and has continued its work since then.