Bernard J. Durkan
Question:113 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his efforts to expand the market for Irish lamb; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9424/03]
Written Answers - Meat Exports.
The marketing of Irish lamb in existing and new markets is primarily the responsibility of the industry. It is supported in its efforts by ongoing and comprehensive promotion by An Bord Bia. My Department and I and the Department of Foreign Affairs support the campaigns of An Bord Bia in whatever way possible in various markets. France remains the principal export market and obviously promotion and marketing efforts focus to a very large extent there. Other EU markets such as the UK, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Portugal also provide outlets for Irish lamb and are the location of ongoing efforts by An Bord Bia. The domestic market is also extremely important and An Bord Bia is undertaking a number of promotional initiatives in the home market in 2003 to increase the consumption of lamb.
EU production is in deficit and therefore the development of third country markets is not a priority under current conditions. The focus, therefore, is on EU markets. Returns to Irish producers remain strong at present and the outlook for 2003 is for production and exports to stabilise at 2002 levels.