Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 May 2010
63 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the measures that he is taking to ensure the viability of the artisan farmhouse cheese sector; if he acknowledges that there are about 60 farmhouse cheese manufacturers here, producing about 1,250 tonnes of cheese with a value of about €9 million; if there is further growth potential in this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21971/10]
View answerThe farmhouse cheese sector makes a valuable contribution to the local food economy, to exports and enhances the local food culture. The sector receives support from my Department and from Agencies under the aegis of my Department. Additional milk quota is provided to support the development of high value and specialist milk products including farmhouse cheese. Specialist advice and support are provided by Teagasc and Bord Bia has consistently championed the sector via national and international trade fairs and competitions. In addition, funding is available under the Bord Bia Marketing Finance Programme and individual farmhouse cheese producers have participated in the Bord Bia Vantage suite of services for small business ( www.bordbiavantage.ie ) and the Marketing Fellowship Programme. The information sought by the Deputy is being collated and will be communicated separately.
