Vol. 567 No. 3
93 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the current price of Irish dairy products on European markets and other markets; the way in which this compares with products originating elsewhere; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14174/03]
The main dairy products produced in Ireland for export are butter, cheese, milk powders and casein. These products are exported world-wide, with the European Union countries accounting for the majority of these sales.
While the dairy industry in Ireland has been extremely successful over the years in developing and maintaining export markets, and has shown itself to be competitive when up against other exporting countries, this is something which cannot be taken for granted. The industry must, therefore, ensure that its structure, its product range and its marketing strength are continually measured against those of its main competitors, both within and outside the EU. The Prospectus study identified areas which require attention in order to maintain international competitiveness and it is essential that these are addressed by the industry in order to ensure Ireland maintains its position as a major dairy exporter.
My Department does not compile statistics on the prices of Irish dairy products on other markets nor on prices of products originating elsewhere.
