|
|
|
|
APPENDIX 7Minutes of proceedings of the Joint CommitteeJoint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the MarineMinutes of Inaugural Meeting: Thursday, 4 December, 1997The Joint Committee met at 11 a.m. Members present: Deputies Harry Blaney, John Brady, John Browne (Wexford), Paul Connaughton, Hugh Coveney, John Ellis, Michael Finucane, Billy Kelleher, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose and Michael Ring and Senators Feargal Quinn, Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely and Francis O Brien. 1.Election of Chairman (conducted by Clerk to Committee) Deputy John Ellis, proposed by Deputy Michael P Kitt and seconded by Deputy Billy Kelleher, was elected as Chairman of the Joint Committee and took the chair accordingly. 2.Any Other Business (i) Food Safety Deputy John Browne (Wexford) enquired as to whether food safety matters which fell within the remit of other government Departments or agencies falling within the remit of those Departments could be examined by the Committee. The Chairman informed the meeting that there was a provision in standing orders which provided for joint meetings of committees to consider a specific matter or matters of common activity. (ii) Blockade of Agricultural Products in Welsh and Scottish Ports The impact of the blockade of Irish agricultural products at various British ports by Welsh and Scottish farmers was discussed by Members. The blockade was universally condemned. Following discussion of the issue the Chairman proposed that he issue a press statement expressing the concerns of Members. This was agreed. (iii) Proposal by Coillte to invest in Sawmill plant Deputy Michael P Kitt expressed concern at the proposal by Coillte to invest in a sawmill plant in Enniskillen which would bring them into competition with their own customers and asked that the Committee consider the matter. The Chairman stated he was sympathetic to the issue raised and that he would consider the matter. (iv) Date of Next Meeting It was agreed that the next meeting would take place on Tuesday, 9 December, 1997 at 5.15 p.m. when the Joint Committee would first meet to elect the Vice-Chair followed immediately by a meeting of the Dáil Select Committee to consider a supplementary estimate for the Department of Marine and Natural Resources. The Joint Committee adjourned at 11.30 a.m. ________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 9 December 1997 Minutes of Meeting: Tuesday, 9 December, 1997The Joint Committee met at 5.17 pm Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Browne (Wexford), John Ellis, Rory Kiely, Michael P. Kitt and Willie Penrose and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Francis O Brien and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Paul Connaughton. 1.Minutes of Previous Meeting The minutes of the inaugural meeting of the Joint Committee on 4 December were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Election of Vice-Chairman Deputy Harry Blaney, proposed by Deputy Michael P Kitt and seconded by Deputy Johnny Brady, was elected as Vice-Chairman of the Joint Committee. The Joint Committee adjourned at 5.19 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 16 December 1997 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday 28 January, 1998The Joint Committee met at 2.04 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Billy Kelleher, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose and P.J. Sheehan and Senator Peter Callanan and Tom Hayes Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy John Browne (Wexford) and Senators Francis O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. Witnesses present: The following representatives from Coillte Teoranta were present at the request of the Committee: Mr Martin Lowry, Chief Executive Officer; Mr Paul Byrne, Company Secretary and Mr John Dwyer, General Manager Finance. 1.Meeting with representatives from Coillte Teoranta (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomes the representatives from Coillite Teoranta and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. He said that at the previous week’s meeting and at a meeting before Christmas there was concern expressed regarding the proposed acquisition by Coillte of a major shareholding in Balcas. At that stage the members expressed a wish to hear the views of Coillte and to express their own views. This was the purpose of the current meeting which was of one hour’s duration. The Chairman also said that he hoped that the Company could come before the Committee at a later stage so that they could give their views on the Coillte’s future. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr Martin Lowry, Chief Executive Officer made a presentation to the Committee followed by a question and answer session with Members. At the request of the Chair the company agreed to forward a detailed submission on their tender\sales system so that the Committee could fully inform itself. 2.Any other business Deputy Michael Finucane proposed that the Minister for Marine and Natural Resources be asked to appear before the Committee so that he could hear and respond to the concerns of Members. The Chairman stated that this matter could be considered at the next meeting. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 2.59 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 4 February 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday 4 February, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.09 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Brown (Wexford) [in the Chair], Paul Connaughton, Mary Coughlan*, Hugh Coveney, Michael Finucane, Seamus Kirk*, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and P.J. Sheehan and Senators Frank Chambers*, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely, Pat Moylan* and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy Harry Blaney (Vice-Chairman), John Ellis (Chairman) and Senator Francis Francis O’Brien. * In substitution for Deputies John Ellis, Billy Kelleher and Senators Peter Callanan and Francis O’Brien respectively. Witnesses present: The following representatives from the Irish Farmers’ Association and Macra na Feirme were present at the request of the Committee: Irish Farmers’ Association - Mr Tom Parlon, President, Mr. Michael Berkery, General Secretary and Mr. Con Lucey, Chief Economist. Macra na Feirme - Mr. Tom McGuire, President, Mr. Tom Curran, Chief Executive and Mr. Damien McDonald, Agriculture Policy Officer. 1.Election of Temporary Chairman (conducted by Clerk to Committee) In the absence of the Chairman and the Vice-Chairman, Deputy John Browne (Wexford), proposed by Deputy Johnny Brady and seconded by Deputy Michael Moynihan, was elected as temporary Chairman and took the chair accordingly. 2.Minutes of meetings of 22 January 1998 and 28 January 1998 The minutes of the meetings of 22 January 1998 (held a private session) and of 28 January 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 3.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Farmers’ Association (I)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Farmers’ Association and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr Tom Parlon, President made a presentation to the Committee followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 5.42 p.m. There was a brief pause to allow representatives from Macra na Feirme to take their seats. 4.Meeting with representatives from Macra na Feirme (I)Introduction by Chairman 5.44 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from Macra na Feirme and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr Tom McGuire, President, Mr. Tom Curran, Chief Executive and Mr. Damien McDonald Agriculture Policy Officer made a presentation to the Committee followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 6.45 p.m. 4.Any other business The Chairman informed the Committee that a special meeting of the Committee would be held on Tuesday next, 10 February 1998, at 2 p.m. to meet with representatives of the Irish Meat Association. He said that the meeting would last a maximum of one hour as the room was booked for 3 p.m. by another Committee. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 6.47 p.m. _______________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman February 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Tuesday, 10 February, 1998The Joint Committee met at 2.03 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Brown (Wexford), Paul Connaughton, Hugh Coveney, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Willie Penrose and Michael Ring and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes and Rory Kiely. Apologies for inability to attend were received Senator Feargal Quinn. Witnesses present: The following representatives from the Irish Meat Association were present at the request of the Committee: Mr. John Smyth, Chief Executive and Mr. Tom McAndrew, Chairman. 1.Minutes of meeting of 4 February 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 4 February 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Meat Association (I)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Meat Association and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr John Smyth, Chief Executive Officer made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr. Smyth and Mr McAndrew participated. The question and answer session concluded at 2.56 p.m. 3.Any other business The Chairman informed the Committee that a special meeting of the Committee would be held on Wednesday next, 17 February 1998, at 4 p.m. to meet with representatives of the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation Ltd and the Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 2.58 p.m. ________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 18 February 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 18 February, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.05 p.m. Members present: Deputies Harry Blaney, John Brady, Paul Connaughton, Mary Coughlan*, Hugh Coveney, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Dinny McGinley*, Willie Penrose and PJ Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy John Brown (Wexford). * In substitution for Deputies Michael P. Kitt and Michael Ring respectively. Witnesses present: The following representatives from the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation Ltd. and Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation were present at the request of the Committee: Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation - Mr. Joe Murrin, Chief Executive and Mr. Martin Howley, Chairman, Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation - Mr. Donal O’Driscoll, Chairman, Mr. Tom Hassett, Secretary and Mr. Jason Whooley, Office Administrator 1.Minutes of meeting of 10 February 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 10 February 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Meeting with representatives from the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr Joe Murrin, Chief Executive and Mr. Martin Howley, Chairman made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr Murrin and Mr. Howley participated. The Question and answer session concluded at 5.04 p.m. Note: There was a brief pause to allow representatives from the Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation to take their seats. 3.Meeting with representatives from the Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation (i)Introduction by Chairman 5.06 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish South and West Fishermen’s Organisation and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Donal O’Driscoll, Chairman, Mr. Tom Hassett, Secretary and Mr. Jason Whooley, Office Administrator made a presentation to the Committee followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 5.57 p.m. 3.Any other business The Chairman suggested that the Joint Committee invite the Chairman and Chief Executive of An Bord Bia before the Committee. This was agreed. It was also agreed that the Minister for Agriculture and Food and the Minister for Marine and Natural Resources would be invited before the Committee after it had heard from the various representative groups and organisations. Deputy Coveney suggested that the Committee consider the issue of the scientific appraisal of genetic engineering given the amount of controversy that was attached to this area at the present time. This was agreed. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 5.57 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 1 April 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 1 April, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.05 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Michael Creed*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Lowry, John Moloney*, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and PJ Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Pat Moylan* and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy Paul Connaughton * In substitution for Deputies Hugh Coveney, Michael Moynihan and Senator Rory Kiely respectively. Deputies Fleming, Naughten and Roche and Senators Connor and Finneran also attended. Witnesses present: The following representatives from the West and Northwest of Ireland Livestock Producers and Suppliers Association and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association were present at the request of the Committee: West and Northwest of Ireland Livestock Producers and Suppliers Association - Mr. Paul Clarke, Mr. Gus Egan, Mr. Hubert Maxwell, Mr. Stephen Foley, Mr. John O’Rourke, Mr. Michael Foley, Mr. Brian Mullen and Mr. Philip Deegan. Irish Countrywomen’s Association - Ms Bernie Hobbs and Ms. Margaret Leahy 1.Expressions of Sympathy Members paid tribute to the memory of Deputy Hugh Coveney, R.I.P., expressed their sincere condolences to his family and passed an expression of sympathy. The Clerk was requested to write to the family of the late Deputy Coveney to convey the sentiments of the Committee. 2.Minutes of meeting of 18 February 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 18 February 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 3.Meeting with representatives from the West and Northwest of Ireland Livestock Producers and Suppliers Association (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the West and Northwest of Ireland Livestock Producers and Suppliers Association and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Paul Clarke, P.R.O. made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr. Gus Egan, Mr. Hubert Maxwell, Mr. Stephen Foley, Mr. John O’Rourke, Mr. Michael Foley, Mr. Brian Mullen and Mr. Philip Deegan participated. The question and answer session concluded at 5.20 p.m. On the request of the Committee, the Association agreed to provide details of the specific points to which they objected in the Regulations. The Chairman suggested that, if possible, they should also recommend alternatives and have the details with the Committee by Friday of this week. (iii)Meeting with Officials from the Department of Agriculture and Food The Chairman suggested that officials from the Department of Agriculture and Food be invited to appear before the Committee. This was agreed. The Clerk was instructed to write to the Secretary and to also express the displeasure of the Committee at the failure of the Department to provide a copy of the draft Regulations when requested to do so by an official of the Committee. Note: There was a brief pause to allow representatives from the Irish Countrywomen’s Association to take their seats. 3.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (i)Election of Temporary Chairman On the proposal of the Chairman, Deputy John Ellis, Deputy Johnny Brady was elected as temporary Chairman and took the chair accordingly. (ii)Introduction by Chairman 5.28 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Countrywomen’s Association and thanked then for coming before the Committee. (iii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Bernie Hobbs made a presentation to the Committee followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 6.02 p.m. 3.Any other business There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 6.02 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 7 April 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Tuesday, 7 April, 1998The Joint Committee met at 3.10 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Michael Creed*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Lowry, John Moloney*, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and PJ Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Pat Moylan* and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy Paul Connaughton * In substitution for Deputies Hugh Coveney, Michael Moynihan and Senator Rory Kiely respectively. Deputies Fleming, Naughten and Roche and Senators Connor and Finneran also attended. Witnesses present: The following representatives from the Irish Fish Producers’ Organisation and United Farmers’ Association were present at the request of the Committee: Irish Fish Producers’ Organisation - Mr. Mark Lochrin, Chief Executive, Mr. Sean Doran, Chairman, Mr. Brendan O’Rourke, Mr. Neil Doherty and United Farmers’ Association - Mr. Michael O’Callaghan, President, Mr. Paul O’Hanlon, National PRO, Darren O’Sullivan, Member, Paddy Murphy, Member 1.Minutes of meeting of 1 April 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 1 April 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. The Chairman informed the Members that arising from the minutes a meeting with the Department of Agriculture and Food to discuss the draft European Communities (Approval and Registration of Dealers and Dealers’ Premises) Regulations, 1998 was being arranged. The suggested time was Wednesday, 22 April, 1998, at 9.30 a.m. and a formal notice would be circulated to Members as soon as this was confirmed. 2.Invitation to Chairman to meeting of the Bureau of the Agriculture Committee of the Chamber of Deputies to be held in Rome, Italy on 6 and 7 May 1998. The Members considered an invitation to the Chairman from the Bureau of the Agriculture Committee of the Chamber of Deputies to a meeting in Rome on 6 and 7 May to discuss the reform of the CAP. The meeting had before it the invitation, associated documentation and costings prepared by the secretariat. It was agreed that the Chairman should attend the meeting and that the costs thereof should be met from the Committee’s travel allocation. It was also agreed that the Clerk should accompany the Chairman but it was noted that his costs would be met from a separate sub-head of the vote of the Office. The Chairman suggested to the Committee that Members should also consider possible travel plans over the next few weeks for subsequent consideration by the Committee. 3.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Fish Producers’ Organisation (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Fish Producers’ Organisation and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Mark Lochrin, Chief Executive made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr. Mark Lochrin (Chief Executive), Mr. Sean Doran (Chairman), Mr. Brendan O’Rourke and Mr. Neil Doherty participated. The question and answer session concluded at 4.05 p.m. Note: The meeting suspended at 4.05 p.m. until 4.11 p.m. to allow representatives from the United Farmers’ Association to take their seats. 4.Meeting with representatives from the United Farmers’ Association (i)Introduction by Chairman 4.11 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the United Farmers’ Association and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Michael O’Callaghan, President, made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr. O’Callaghan participated. The question and answer session concluded at 5 p.m. 5.Any other business (i) Legislation before the Committee The Chairman informed the meeting that there were two Bills before the Committee which would need to be considered commencing in early May. These Bills were the Merchant Shipping (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 1997 and the Plant Varieties (Proprietary Rights)(Amendment) Bill, 1997. The Clerk was asked to make the necessary arrangements in consultation with the convenors. (ii) Date of next meeting The Chairman informed the meeting that the next definitive meeting of the Committee was with Bord Bia at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, 29 April 1998. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 6.02 p.m sine die. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 22 April 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 22 April, 1998The Joint Committee met at 9.38 a.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Michael Ring and PJ Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, and Francis O’Brien. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy John Browne (Wexford) and Senator Feargal Quinn. Witnesses present: The following officials from the Department of Agriculture and Marine were present at the request of the Committee: Mr. Seamus Healy, Assistant Secretary, Ms. Bríd Cannon, Principal Officer, National Beef Assurance Division, Mr. Liam Fitzgerald, Principal Officer, ERAD Division. 1.Minutes of meeting of 7 April 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 7 April 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Discussions with officials from the Department of Agriculture and Food regarding draft European Communities (Approval and Registration of Dealers and Dealers’ Premises) Regulations, 1998. (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the officials from the Department of Agriculture and Food and thanked then for coming before the Committee at such short notice. He also admonished the Department on behalf of the Committee for failing to provide the Committee with copies of the draft Regulations when requested to do so by the secretariat. Following an explanation by the Department he accepted that the failure to provide the draft Regulations was not malicious. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Seamus Healy, Assistant Principal made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. The Chairman requested that the Department, when redrafting the draft Regulations, take on board the strong concerns expressed by the Members of the Committee concerning certain aspects of the draft Regulations. He also requested that the Department provide the Committee with copies of the final draft of the Regulations before they were signed by the Minister in order to allow the Committee the opportunity of further considering the matter. The question and answer session on the draft Regulations concluded at 10.45 a.m. The Members then availed of the opportunity to discuss aspects of the brucellosis testing scheme with the Department of representatives. During the course of this discussion Members expressed their strong concern with the delays in farmers obtaining the results of blood tests and with certain other aspects of the testing scheme. The Department was asked to take their concerns under advisement and to attempt to remedy the defects outlined by the Members. The question and answer session on the brucellosis testing scheme concluded at 11.07 a.m. 3.Any other business There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 11.08 a.m. until 29 April 1998. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 13 May 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 13 May, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.10 p.m. Members present: Deputies Harry Blaney, John Brady, Paul Connaughton, Michael Creed*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose and P.J. Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received Deputy John Browne (Wexford) and Senator Francis O’Brien. * substitute for Deputy Michael Ring. Witnesses present: The following officials from the Irish Cattle Traders and Stockowners’ Association and the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association were present at the request of the Committee: Irish Cattle Traders and Stockowners’ Association: Mr. Eddie Collins-Hughes, Secretary, Mr. Jimmy Cosgrave, Past President and Mr. Charles Reilly, Vice-Chairperson. Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association: Mr. Frank Allen, President, Mr. Pat O’Rourke, Vice-President, Mr. Kieran Dolan and Mr. Liam Heveran. 1.Minutes of meeting of 22 April 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 22 April 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Rapporteurs (current position) and Work Programme It was agreed that an informal sub-committee should finalise the work programme and bring it before the Committee for approval. It was also agreed that it should consider the basis on which the funds available to the Chairman for rapporteurs should be allocated. 3.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Cattle Traders and Stockowners’ Association (i)Introduction by Chairman 4.12 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Cattle Traders and Stockowners’ Association and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Eddie Collins-Hughes, Secretary made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which the other members of the delegation participated. The question and answer session concluded at 5.08 p.m. 4.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association: (i)Introduction by Chairman 5.12 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Frank Allen, President made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which the other members of the delegation participated. The question and answer session concluded at 5.59 p.m. 5.Any other business There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 6.02 p.m. sine die ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 27 May 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 27 May, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.13 p.m. Members present: Deputies Harry Blaney, John Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Michael Ring and P.J. Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Rory Kiely, Franics O’Brien and Brendan Ryan. Apologies for inability to attend were received Senator Feargal Quinn. Senator Enda Bonner also attended. Witnesses present: The following officials from the Irish Fishermen’s Organisation Ltd were present at the request of the Committee: Mr. Joseph V. Maddock, Chairman, Mr. Frank Doyle, General Secretary. 1.Minutes of meeting of 13 May 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 13 May 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Meeting with representatives from the Irish Fishermen’s Organisation Ltd. (i)Introduction by Chairman 4.15 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the Irish Fishermen’s Organisation Ltd and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Joseph V. Maddock, Chairman made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members in which Mr. Doyle participated. The question and answer session concluded at 5.24 p.m. 3.Any other business (i)Provision of additional monitor in Committee Rooms Senator Callanan asked that an additional monitor be provided in each Committee room so that Members could simultaneously observe proceedings in the Dáil, Seanad and the Committee room. The Chairman suggested that the Clerk raise the matter with the appropriate authorities with a view to a positive outcome. This was agreed. (ii)Animal Breeding Deputy Paul Connaughton suggested that the Department of Agriculture and Food be invited before the Committee to discuss animal breeding but that the AI stations be invited to make written submissions before the Department were asked to appear. It was agreed that this item should be placed in the Work Programme. (iii)Members’ nameplates Deputy Michael Finucane said that he had noted that unlike previous meetings Member’s nameplates had not been distributed on this occasion and he suggested that as nameplated were a considerable aid to witnesses appearing before the Committee it should be policy for future meetings. This was agreed. 4.Adjournment The Chairman said that the next meeting would be a meeting of the Dáil Select Committee at 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday, 19 May 1998, to consider the Merchant Shipping (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 1997. The Joint Committee adjourned at 5.27 p.m. sine die and an informal sub-Committee met in private to consider the work programme and related matters. The sub-Committee adjourned at 5.44 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 17 June 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 17 June, 1998The Joint Committee met at 9.40 a.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Browne (Wexford), Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and P.J. Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Franics O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. Deputies Michael Creed and Seymour Crawford also attended. Witnesses present: The following officials from Bord Bia were present at the request of the Committee: Mr Philip Lynch, Chairman, Mr Michael Duffy, C.E.O., Séamus Kenny, Secretary. 1.Minutes of meeting of 27 May 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 27 May 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Meeting with representatives from Bord Bia (i)Introduction by Chairman 9.40 a.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from Bord Bia and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Philip Lynch, Chairman and Mr. Michael Duffy, C.E.O. made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 10.56 a.m. (iii)Annual Report The Chairman said that the Committee hoped to would invite Bord Bia before it in due course upon receipt of their Annual Report. 3.Any other business (i)Animal Breeding Deputy Paul Connaughton reminded the Committee of his suggestion at the meeting of 27 May, 1998, that the Committee investigate the area of animal breeding. He said that this matter was assuming some importance as the Department were introducing changes in the AI scheme as of 1 July, 1998. The Chairman said that the matter would be placed high on the Committee’s list of priorities and investigated at an early stage. 4.Adjournment The Chairman said that the next meeting would be a meeting of the Dáil Select Committee at 2.30 p.m. on Wednesday, 24 June 1998, to consider the Plant Varieties (Proprietary Rights)(Amendment) Bill, 1997. The Joint Committee adjourned at 10.58 a.m. sine die ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 16 July 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Thursday, 16 July, 1998The Joint Committee met at 2.43 p.m. Members present: Deputies Theresa Ahern*, John Brady, Martin Brady*, Mattie Brennan*, Paul Connaughton, Michael Creed, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Jackie Healy Rae*, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan and Michael Ring and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely, Franics O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. * in substitution for Deputies P.J. Sheehan, John Browne (Wexford), Billy Kelleher and Harry Blaney respectively. Witnesses present: The following officials from Coillte Teoranta were present at the request of the Committee: Mr. Martin Lowery, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Dwyer, General Manager Finance, Mr. Ivan Schuster, Financial Accountant, Mr. Denis Gallagher, Region Manager (Sligo) and Mr. Tony Hennessy, Assistant Company Secretary, 1.Minutes of meeting of 17 June 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 17 June 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to 2.Meeting with representatives from Coillte Teoranta. Consideration of Annual Report and related matters (i)Introduction by Chairman 2.45 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from Coillte Teoranta and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Martin Lowery, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Dwyer, General Manager Finance, Mr. Ivan Schuster, Financial Accountant, Mr. Denis Gallagher, Region Manager (Sligo) and Mr. Tony Hennessy, Assistant Company Secretary made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. Mr Lowery agreed that Coillte Teo would report to the committee within three months on the issue of Company measures to alleviate the damage caused to local roads and that they would consider the Chairman’s proposal that contractors working for the Company be obliged to adhere to the relevant laws in this regard as part of the conditions of tender. They also agreed to send documentation on partnership arrangements to the Committee. The question and answer session concluded at 4.29 p.m. 3.Report of the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine on the Meeting of the Chairpersons of Agricultural Committees of the European Union, Rome, Italy, May 5 - May 7, 1998 It was agreed that the Report of the Chairman on the Meeting of the Chairpersons of Agricultural Committees of the European Union, Rome, Italy, May 5 - May 7, 1998 would be laid before both Houses. 4.Laying of minutes of evidence of previous meetings of the Joint Committee before both Houses of the Oireachtas It was agreed that the proceedings of the Joint Committee for the period 28 January 1998 to 27 May 1998 would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. 5.Authorisation for proposed travel. It was agreed that the Committee would send a five Member delegation to Argentina as part of its consideration of Agenda 2000. Relevant costings were circulated to the meeting. It was also agreed that the Committee would send a delegation to Norway, possibly comprising three Members, as part of its consideration of the fishing industry. 6.Any other business Senator Callanan proposed that the Committee consider Teagasc’s new plan, Teagasc 2000. The Chairman said that this proposal could be considered at the meeting of the Committee in September and proposed that the Committee also consider meeting representatives of Bord Iascaigh Mhara. He also proposed examining the pig industry and suggested that this item could perhaps be briefly considered, time permitting, at the end of the Committee’s next meeting on Tuesday, 21 July. This was agreed. 7.Adjournment The Chairman announced that the next meeting of the Joint Committee would be 11.00 a.m. on Tuesday, 21 July 1998. The Joint Committee adjourned at 4.37 p.m. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 21 July 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Tuesday, 21 July, 1998The Joint Committee met at 11.10 a.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, Michael Creed, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Billy Kelleher, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan and Willie Penrose and Senators Peter Callanan, Rory Kiely and Francis O’Brien. Witnesses present: The following officials from Progressive Genetics, Department of Agriculture and Food and Irish Cattle Breeding Federation were present at the request of the Committee: A.I. Managers Group: Mr. Bernard Eivers, Chairman, A.I. Managers Group, Mr. Dermot Cahill, South Eastern Cattle Breeding Society, Mr. J.J. McKearney, North Eastern Cattle Breeding Society, Mr. Seamus Bergin, Sligo A.I. Department of Agriculture and Food: Dr. Tom Teehan, (Senior Agricultural Inspector), Mr. Niall O’Nuallain (Veterinary Inspector), Mr. Fran McKeon (Higher Executive Officer) and Irish Cattle Breeding Federation: Dr. Brian Wickham, Chief Executive Officer. 1.Minutes of meeting of 16 July 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 16 July 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. Arising from comments made at the last meeting regarding the state of the pig meat industry, the Chairman said that he had now written to the Department of Agriculture and Food requesting their observations on a number of important issues. Upon receipt of their observations the matter could be further considered. 2.Meeting with representatives from the A.I. Managers Group, Department of Agriculture and Food and Irish Cattle Breeding Federation re Animal Breeding (i)Introduction by Chairman 11.12 a.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the A.I. Managers Group, Department of Agriculture and Food and Irish Cattle Breeding Federation and thanked them for coming before the Committee. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Dr. Tom Teehan, (Senior Agricultural Inspector), Mr. Fran McKeon (Higher Executive Officer), Mr. Bernard Eivers, Chairman, A.I. Managers Group, and Dr. Brian Wickham, Chief Executive Officer made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. Upon conclusion of the question and answer session the Chairman thanked the representatives of the various groups for attending the meeting and said that there might be a need to hold additional meetings with other representatives organisations to further debate this important issue. 3.Work Programme - approval of for laying before both Houses It was agreed that the Work Programme would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. 4.Rapporteurs (formal authorisation for allocation of funds) It was agreed that £2,000 be made to Deputy Michael Finucane for the preparation of a report on the fishery sector. 5.Any other business There being no other business the Committee adjourned at 1.10 p.m. sine die, the Chairman announcing that the next meeting would be held in September, on a date to be advised. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 16 December 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Tuesday, 8 August, 1998The Joint Committee met at 12.06 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Ellis (in the Chair), Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and Jackie Healy-Rae* and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely and Francis O’Brien. Apologies were received from Deputies Harry Blaney, John Browne, Paul Connaughton, Michael Creed, Michael P. Kitt and P.J. Sheehan and Senator Feargal Quinn. * Deputy Jackie Healy-Rate substituted for Deputy Harry Blaney. Members of the Czech Delegation: Senators Jaroslav Jurečka (Chairman), Jaroslav Petřik (Vice-Chairman), Karel Burda, Alfréd Michalík and Oplt. The delegation were also accompanied by the following officials: Mr Miroslav Kolatek (First Secretary in the Czech Embassy), Ms Ivana Večeřová (Committee Clerk), Ms Blanka Semotánová (Acting Deputy Principal Clerk, Department of International Relations, Parliament of the Czech Republic) and Ms Brozkova (Interpreter). 1.Meeting with a delegation of Members from the Czech Senate (i)Introduction and welcome by Chairman 12.05 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the National Economy, Agriculture and Transport Committee of the Czech Senate led by their Chairman, Mr Jaroslav Jurečka, introduced the Members of the Committee and explained the powers of the Committee. (ii)Exchange of factual information and Question and Answer Session Members of the Czech delegation made a brief factual presentation on the political background to the Czech Republic, the Czech Senate and their agricultural system. This was followed by a question and answer session between the members of both Committees. 2.Adjournment The Chairman thanked Mr Jurečka and his delegation for visiting Ireland and for a useful and informative exchange of views which they could continue over lunch. He suggested that they should meet again in the near future, perhaps in Prague. Mr Jurečka concluded by thanking the Members of the Committee for meeting with him and his colleagues and said that he would be happy to meet with them again if they should visit Prague. The meeting adjourned at 1.04pm. ____________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 15 September 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Tuesday, 15 September, 1998The Joint Committee met at 12.12 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, Seymour Crawford*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael P. Kitt, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring P.J. Sheehan and Theresa Ahearn* and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely, Francis O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. Apologies were received from Deputies Harry Blaney, John Browne and Michael Moynihan * Deputy Seymour Crawford substituted for Deputy Michael Creed and Deputy Theresa Ahearn substituted for Deputy PJ Sheehan. 1.Minutes of meetings of 16 July and 8 September 1998 The minutes of both meetings were put to the meeting and agreed. 2.Discussion on Work Programme (i)Work Programme until Christmas The Chairman advised the meeting that the next six scheduled meeting slots were: 1.Wednesday 7 October 2.Wednesday 21 October 3.Wednesday 4 November 4.Wednesday 18 November 5.Wednesday 2 December (Budget Day) 6.Wednesday 16 December There would be no meeting on Budget day, 2 December. It was agreed to the Minister for Marine and Natural resources, Dr. Michael Woods, T.D., to the meeting of 7 October 1998 in order to discuss (a) the recently published report by the Marine Institute entitled ‘A Marine Research, Technology, Development and Innovation Strategy for Ireland - A National Team Approach’ and (b) general marine matters falling within the remit of the Minister. In regard to other meetings the following dates and subject matters were agreed:
Following a suggestion by Senator Feargal Quinn it was also agreed that a meeting would be held to discuss food safety, possibly on a Wednesday morning before Christmas. (ii)Employment of Consultant Following a suggestion by the Chairman, the Committee agreed to employ a consultant to consider the future of Irish Agriculture having regard to the reform of the CAP and other relevant factors such as the world trade negotiations. It was agreed that draft terms of reference would be prepared by the secretariat and considered by the Committee. 3.Any other business (i)Invitation received from Italian Parliament to attend Meeting in Rome The meeting considered an invitation received from the Italian Parliament to attend an Inter-Parliamentary Union Conference in Rome from Sunday 29 November to Wednesday 2 December on “Attaining the World Food Summit’s Objectives through a Sustainable Development Strategy”. Up to four parliamentarians were invited to attend. It was agreed in principle to send up to four members and it was also agreed that the matter would be decided at the next meeting on 7 October. (ii)Coillte Teoranta The Chairman informed the meeting that he had received a consultation document from Coillte Teoranta entitled “A Framework for Sustainable Forestry Management” concerning sustainable forestry management guidelines being developed by Coillte. The Chairman suggested that copies of the document be sought and supplied to all Members of the Committee. This was agreed. (iii)Circulation of Documents It was agreed that any document received by the Clerk would be placed on a list which would be circulated to Members. Members could then ask for copies of any document\s on the list: The meeting adjourned at 12.24 p.m. until Wednesday, 7 October 1998. ______________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 7 October 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 7 October, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.11 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, John Browne, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Michael Ring and P.J. Sheehan and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely, Francis O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. Apologies were received from Deputy Michael Creed. 1.Minutes of meeting of 15 September 1998 The minutes of 15 September were put to the meeting and agreed. 2.Invitation from the Italian Parliament to attend meeting in Rome, Sunday 29 November - Wednesday 2 December, 1998 With the agreement of the Members the Chairman brought forward item number 3 on the agenda for discussion. The decision taken at the previous meeting to send four Members and the Clerk to the meeting in Rome was confirmed and a costing of was circulated and approved. It was agreed that the Members to travel would be selected following consultation between the Chairman and the convenors. 4.13 p.m. Ordered: That the meeting suspend to await the arrival of the Minister. 4.15 p.m. Resumed 3.Meeting with Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources, Dr Michael Woods, T.D. (i)Introduction by Chairman The Chairman welcomed the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources, Dr Michael Woods, T.D., and thanked him for responding positively and promptly to the invitation from the Committee to attend a meeting to discuss the recent report by the Marine Institute entitled ‘A Marine Research, Technology, Development and Innovation Strategy for Ireland - A National Team Approach’ and indeed Marine matters generally. The Chairman also welcomed Ms Sara White and Mr Michael Guilfoyle, Assistant Secretaries, who accompanied the Minister and Mr Peter Heffernan, Chief Executive of the Marine Institute. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session The Minister made a presentation to the Committee and circulated an associated document. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 5.55 p.m. 4.Any other business The Chairman advised Members that one Bills had been referred to the Select Committee, the State Property Bill, 1998 and that it was likely that the Western Development Commission Bill would be referred the following day. It was hoped to take one or both of the Bills the following week and he wished to put Members on notice. The Clerk would advise Members in the normal way. There being no other business the meeting adjourned at 5.56 p.m. sine die. ______________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 21 October 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 21 October, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.10 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael P. Kitt, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and Senators Mary Henry*, Rory Kiely. * In substitution for Senator Fergal Quinn. Apologies were received from Deputy P.J. Sheehan. 1.Minutes of Meeting of 7 October 1998 The minutes of 7 October were put to the meeting and agreed. 2.Meeting with officials of Department of Agriculture and Food The Chairman welcomed Mr Bart Brady, Assistant Secretary from the Department of Agriculture and Food, and his colleagues to the meeting. The Department were to brief the Committee on the current position regarding Agenda 2000, the likely implications for Irish agriculture of the world trade negotiations, and the Department’s views on possible scenarios (short, medium and long-term) for the future of Irish agriculture having regard to the foregoing. The Chairman explained that, unfortunately, the meeting now coincided with a special debate in the Dáil on agriculture which had been arranged after this meeting. Following a proposal from Deputy Paul Connaughton which was seconded by Senator Mary Henry it was agreed to postpone the discussion with agricultural officials until a later date. 3.Proposals to engage consultants The Chairman reminded Members that at its meeting on 15 September the Committee agreed to employ a consultant to consider the future of Irish Agriculture having regard to the reform of the CAP and other relevant factors such as the world trade negotiations. It has been agreed that draft terms of reference would be prepared by the secretariat and considered by the Committee. He now proposed that the consultants be asked to investigate the topic of the future direction of Irish agriculture having regard to the Commission’s Agenda 2000 proposals, ongoing trade liberalisation and other relevant developments. This was agreed. The Chairman explained that the secretariat would now write to various consultants seeking tenders for the work. 4.Any other business There being no other business the meeting adjourned at 4.15 p.m. sine die. ________________ John Ellis T.D., Chairman 18 November 1998 Minutes of Public Meeting: Wednesday, 18 November, 1998The Joint Committee met at 4.06 p.m. Members present: Deputies John Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Michael Finucane, Billy Kelleher, Michael P. Kitt, Michael Moynihan, Willie Penrose, Michael Ring and Senators Peter Callanan, Tom Hayes, Rory Kiely, Francis O’Brien and Feargal Quinn. Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Harry Blaney, John Browne (Wexford) and PJ Sheehan. Also in attendance: Senator Frank Chambers Witnesses present: The following representatives from the ICMSA and the IFA were present at the request of the Committee: ICMSA: Mr Frank Allen, President. IFA: Mr Tom Parlon, President; Mr Michael Berkery General Secretary; Mr Gerry Gunning, Executive Secretary Rural/Western Development Committee. 1.Minutes of meeting of 21 October 1998 The minutes of the meeting of 21 October 1998 were put to the meeting and agreed to. 2.Meeting with representative from the ICMSA (i)Introduction by Chairman 4.07 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representative from the ICMSA and thanked him for coming before the Committee at such short notice. (ii)Presentation and Question and Answer Session Mr. Frank Allen, President, made a presentation to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with Members. The question and answer session concluded at 5 p.m. (ii)Meeting with Representatives of the IFA (i)Introduction by Chairman 5.02 p.m. - The Chairman welcomed the representatives from the IFA and thanked them for coming before the Committee at short notice. (ii)Meeting with representatives from the IFA Mr. Tom Parlon, Mr. Michael Berkery and Mr. Gerry Gunning made presentations to the Committee. This was followed by a question and answer session with the Members which concluded at 5.59 p.m. 3.Any other business The Chairman advised Members that it was proposed that the elect Committee would meet to consider supplementary estimates for the Department of the Marine and Natural Resources and the Department of Agriculture and Food on Thursday, 3 December commencing at 9.30 a.m. The Clerk would communicate with members in the normal way. There being no other business the Joint Committee adjourned at 6 p.m. sine die. __________________ John Ellis TD Chairman December 1998 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
