Smith launches long-term strategy drive for food, forestry and fisheries

AN initiative to draw up a long-term strategy for the agri-food, forestry and fisheries sectors has been launched in Dublin.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Brendan Smith, who launched the initiative yesterday, has appointed a 30-member committee, chaired by Dr Sean Brady, to lead the process and established a web-based public consultation process.

Mr Smith said agri-food, forestry and fisheries are already hugely important to the economy and society as a source of jobs, exports and regional development.