The Irish government has unveiled a new strategy for the development of agriculture, forestry and fisheries in the country, in a move that could create up to 4,000 new food jobs.
The plan was announced by Taoiseach (First Minister) Brian Cowen this week, at the same time as the Food Harvest 2020 report was officially released. The document was drawn up by a committee of thirty specialists from the field of agri-food, chosen by the Minister for Agriculture, Brendan Smith.
In his speech, Mr Cowen emphasised the importance of the link between food production and employment, pointing out that Ireland currently employs approximately 150,000 people in food jobs and that the sector generates revenue of nearly €24 billion a year. He said:
"At a time perhaps in the last decade when we've seen employment reduced by 1,500 in the agri-food sector, we see the prospect of 3,500 to 4,000 jobs being created by 2020 under these plans,"
The strategy itself includes plans to increase the production of beef and milk, and increase food and drink exportation by approximately 42 per cent. Additionally, the government wants to boost the value of the fisheries and farms industries by €1.5 billion.

Recent Comments