Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA recently welcomed the announcement of plans to establish a new marketing organisation for the agri-food sector.
Minister O’Neill said: “Agri-food is one of the key sectors in delivering export-led economic growth for the north. I welcome today’s announcement regarding a new marketing organisation and the opportunity it brings to expand the sector’s market share both locally and right across the globe.
“Industry representatives have made it clear that there is a need for better coordination of current marketing activities in the north. I believe an agri-food marketing body could provide the leadership and strategic direction needed to achieve this and welcome the initiative taken by the Agri-Food Strategy Board to progress this proposal.
“The Agri-Food Strategy Board has championed the concept of a single supply chain. I endorse this approach and hope the proposed body will provide an inclusive forum for the industry to work together for the benefit of all elements of the chain.
“Whilst today’s announcement is clearly a positive step, these plans could have implications for the work of other organisations, including my Department. I look forward to working with the AFSB to further develop their proposals.”
