Minister Brendan Smith launches 2020 Strategy

Looking to ensure that the food industry is an integral part within the creation of the 'smart economy', Minister Brendan Smith has appointed Dr Sean Brady to chair a new strategic committee. In addition to the Chairman, the Minister appointed 30 members to the board from the industry, State organisations and farm organisations, as well as the accounting and banking sectors.
Their mandate is to draw up a focused document that sets out the key strategies required for the future development of the sector. The timeframe for completion of the report is June I.
While there is no doubt that the Ministe's intentions are in line with Government policy, the question must be posed as to whether or not anything meaningful can be achieved with so many interest groups on board. The 'Brady bunch' are hardly from the one family tree and it will be interesting to see what strategic proposals the board will agree on.

Vets of the future meet

Veterinary Ireland held its annual practice day last month in UCD. The day was hosted by the organisation's new President Joe Collins. Over 75 final year students attended the seminar 'Starting out in Practice' and some of the speakers included David McKeown Veterinary Defence Society, Adrian Moynihan AIB, and past president Peadar O’Scanaill.