asked the Minister for Agriculture the plans he has for the rationalisation of the slaughtering/processing end of the pig industry.
Written Answers. - Pig Industry.
17.
In order to maintain export competitiveness it is necessary to modernise Irish pigmeat slaughtering and processing plants. Average slaughtering capacity is low by international standards resulting in high unit costs. The aim in this area is to replace a large number of outdated plants with a smaller number of plants capable of a higher, more cost-efficient, throughput. In the processing area buildings need to be modernised and new plant installed. The overall objective is the development of a more efficient and modern industry, capable of competing effectively on both domestic and export markets. Generous grant aid is available for investments by suitable applicants.
Increased interest in undertaking the required investments is now in evidence by the number of projects in the pipeline. The full benefits of the investment programme will not materialise unless it is supported by an aggressive marketing policy involving diversification of markets and products. This is the biggest challenge for the industry over the next few years.