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Tuesday, 13 Feb 2018

Written Answers Nos. 496-517

Herd Number Applications

Questions (496)

Eugene Murphy

Question:

496. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a dormant herd number can be reinstated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7283/18]

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Written answers

It is possible to reactivate a dormant herd number. This is done by completing an ER1 form and submitting it with relevant documentation to the local Veterinary Office. ER1 forms are available from the local offices or on my Department’s website at:

https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/animalhealthwelfare/diseasecontrol/bovinetb/diseaseeradicationtb/

Staff in the local offices are available to assist in the completion of this form and to provide information on the process.

Horse Racing Industry Funding

Questions (497)

Clare Daly

Question:

497. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s decision on 25 January 2018 to report potential allegations of criminality regarding the foal levy to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7293/18]

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Written answers

Horse Racing Ireland is a commercial state body responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry.

As the Deputy refers to potential allegations of criminality which are to be reported to the Garda, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on this issue.

GLAS Payments

Questions (498)

Tom Neville

Question:

498. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will address a matter regarding farm payments for a person (details supplied). [7302/18]

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Written answers

The above named was approved into GLAS 2 with a contract commencement date of 1 January 2016 and has been paid the 2016 advance.

Administrative checks must take place on all GLAS claims. All cases must clear validation checks before payment can issue.

While the application was originally submitted on an individual basis, the NMP was submitted in relation to the partnership that was subsequently formed. The Department has now associated the NMP with the partnership. The case has now passed the GLAS validations and the 2016 balance will issue shortly. The case will then move for processing of the 2017 advance payment. GLAS 2017 advance payments are being made on a weekly basis.

Animal Welfare

Questions (499)

Clare Daly

Question:

499. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to an incident on 5 February 2018 when a number of hounds from a club (details supplied) ran onto the M3 resulting in the death of four dogs and creating a significant danger for motorists; the steps he will take to sanction the club; and his plans for legislation to ban fox hunting. [7327/18]

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Written answers

I am aware of the reported incident.

The Hunting Association of Ireland has a detailed Code of Conduct in place in respect of the hunting of foxes. I am disappointed that despite the existence of this Code, this event occurred. I have asked my officials to engage with the Hunting Association to establish the circumstances associated with this event and to determine whether, in light of this event and another recent event, the Code needs updating.

Given that detailed debate was held around the issue of hunting during the passage of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 and the Dail voted overwhelmingly to allow the continuation of fox hunting, I am not proposing the introduction of a ban.

Pension Provisions

Questions (500)

Robert Troy

Question:

500. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the pension entitlements of a person (details supplied) who was formerly employed within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7374/18]

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Written answers

The matter of pension entitlements for former employees is a matter for Human Resources (HR) Division within my Department. I would like to assure the Deputy that a member of the HR team will contact the person directly to assist with their enquiry.

Brexit Issues

Questions (501)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

501. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he and his Department continue to make preparations to capitalise on Brexit, with particular reference to the opening up of new opportunities for food production here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7448/18]

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Written answers

There may be opportunities for some Irish agri food companies, arising  from reductions in raw material costs because of exchange rate volatility or, depending on the outcome of the current negotiations, some import substitution opportunities. My Department and its agencies are at present considering the extent of such potential.

Nonetheless the available research suggests that on balance the impact of Brexit on the agri food sector is likely to be negative. 

Against this background the primary focus of my Department and its agencies has been on investing in marketing and promotion, in product development, innovation and production efficiency, and on diversification into new markets  and deeper penetration of existing markets, including the UK.

Over the last eighteen months, I have led trade missions to more than ten non-European countries on three different continents. The purpose of these Missions is to open up new markets for our food products, while at the same time retaining and developing existing markets. I have also allocated significant additional funding to Bord Bia in Budgets 2017 and 2018 to support its Market Prioritisation and development programmes.

Beef Industry

Questions (502)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

502. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the degree to which he remains satisfied regarding the future development and expansion of the beef sector, with particular reference to its ability to compete on world markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7449/18]

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Written answers

There is currently a strong demand for meat globally including beef. Figures from Bord Bia’s 2017/2018 Export Performance and Prospects show global demand expected to rise by 1.9% this year, with China and east Asia once again being the main drivers of this trend. In addition, EU exports of beef performed strongly for 2017 and Irish exporters also had a good year, with beef exports growing by 5% to reach a value of €2.5 billion, and live exports rising by approximately 30%, giving beef farmers a vital alternative market outlet. These are positive developments for a beef exporter country such as Ireland, which remains the fifth largest net exporter of beef in the world, and should provide ongoing opportunities for the development of the sector domestically and for growth in Irish exports both within the EU and to third countries.

Securing new market access and enhancing existing Irish beef access was a priority for trade missions in 2017 and I will also be leading a further series Government of Ireland agri-food trade missions in 2018, commencing with the US and Canada at the end of this month. Improved beef access to Saudi Arabia was secured during the Trade Mission to the Gulf States in February 2017. In June of last year I led a trade mission to Mexico and the USA; the mission was a welcome opportunity to promote Irish beef in the USA, particularly now that Ireland has access for Beef Intended for Grinding (BIFG). As part of this mission, I also announced Ireland’s intention to apply for beef market access in Mexico. In addition, beef market access was a central focus of the trade mission to Japan and South Korea in November. During this visit I met with South Korean Minister’s to expedite the process of gaining market access. I also had very fruitful discussions with the Japanese authorities about the potential for increasing the age restrictions on beef and this is under consideration at present.

Ireland is also entering the final stages in gaining beef market access to China. A comprehensive audit was carried out in Ireland by the Chinese authorities in August and September of last year and a draft report has recently been published which my Department has responded to. My officials continue to liaise closely with their Chinese counterparts to provide every assurance in relation to the quality and safety of Irish beef.

My Department currently provides a range of supports to the beef sector and the suckler herd. A number of direct payment and grant schemes provide vital income and investment support to the suckler sector, including BPS, ANC, GLAS and TAMS. The Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) is the main support specifically targeted for the suckler sector, which provides Irish beef farmers with some €300 million in funding over the current Rural Development Programme period. Responding to significant demand, last year I reopened the BDGP programme for new entrants, reflecting the success of this programme, which targets both the environmental footprint and the profitability of the suckler herd through improving the genetic merit in participating herds.

Whilst the Irish beef sector has been challenged by Brexit uncertainty, meeting this challenge is assisted by having in place a long term strategy for agri food sector in Food Wise 2025, which includes actions to enhance the competitiveness of the beef sector at both farmer and processor level.

Sheepmeat Sector

Questions (503)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

503. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he is satisfied regarding the future prospects for exports of lamb to the European Union or outside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7450/18]

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Written answers

Last year, 2017, was a positive year for the Irish sheepmeat industry and total Irish sheepmeat production rose by 10 percent in 2017 to 67,000 tonnes according to the Performance and Prospects 2017/2018 report by Bord Bia. Alongside this increase in production, exports have risen by 14 percent in volume terms to 57,000 tonnes and by 12 percent in value terms to €275 million. In 2017 Ireland exported sheepmeat to 39 countries. 

Within the EU, France and the UK remain the top markets for Irish sheepmeat. France represents one third of the market, growing at 4 percent to €95 million; this strong market will be a significant asset to Ireland’s sheepmeat industry against the backdrop of Brexit. The UK market grew at 11 percent, yielding €51 million. Across the EU, Sweden recorded growth of 14 percent for 2017, making it Ireland’s third largest export market for sheepmeat. The German market is in fourth position, with a 9 per cent growth rate and exports of €26m.

Bord Bia have identified Germany as an EU country with strong growth potential; Germany has a large meat-eating population base, and low consumption of sheepmeat. Industry trends indicate that lamb is growing in popularity amongst gourmet restaurants and premium retailers, and the Bord Bia strategy will target this section of the market. Among other EU markets targeted for development in the Bord Bia report are the Nordic countries, where Irish sheepmeat already accounts for over one in every five tonnes of sheep meat imported; and Belgium and Luxembourg, where Irish premium exports are growing in a competitive market.

Outside of the EU, Bord Bia’s recent market prioritisation exercise has identified Iran and the United Arab Emirates as markets with high potential for growth. The Iranian population is expected to increase significantly, and sheepmeat is popular amongst consumers. Ireland gained sheepmeat market access to Iran in 2016. The United Arab Emirates imports large quantities of meat, with imports making up 70% of all requirements.

In terms of sheepmeat market access, I announced Ireland’s intention to seek sheepmeat access to both South Korea and Japan during the Trade Mission last November and positive progress is already being made in relation to access to Japan. Nonetheless, it is important to keep seeking out new opportunities for our sheepmeat industry.

Sheepmeat access to the USA is a high priority for the sheepmeat industry, although this will be dependent on the USA lifting their TSE ban. The timing of this is uncertain and is a matter for the US authorities but it is intended to raise this as part of the upcoming Trade Mission to the USA and Canada.

Cereal Sector

Questions (504)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

504. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains reassured regarding the future of the cereal sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7451/18]

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Written answers

Firstly I wish to emphasise that I am very much committed to this very important sector which plays a key role in the development of the wider agri-food industry. Tillage is a key source of seed production, grain for the milling and malting industry and feeding stuffs for the livestock sector and as a consequence is a significant stakeholder in our agri-food industry from a supply/food safety and sustainability viewpoint.

Cereal production has experienced a few difficult years both in terms of grain price and weather conditions. Because Ireland accounts for only around 1% of EU production, grain prices here are very much affected by European and world market price shifts and tend to experience volatility. The current situation globally for the cereal sector is that it has experienced another consecutive year of high grain supplies which have again outstripped demand. These years of oversupply continue to exert a downward pressure on the market and this of course has had a negative effect on price to the grower here. Partly as a consequence, the annual cereal area has reduced in recent years. For example, in 2017 the national cereals area reduced by about 10,000 ha to 270,000.

However, I want to highlight the actions my Department is undertaking to assist this vital sector. In 2017 I introduced the €150m Agriculture Cashflow Support Loan Scheme and extended it through provision of national funding to cover the tillage and horticulture sectors. There was a very positive reaction by farmers, including tillage farmers, to the Scheme, which has proved that significant demand exists for low cost flexible finance.  The “Agriculture Cashflow Loan Scheme” has provided a template for access to finance schemes, including the recently announced “Brexit Loan Scheme” for SMEs. 

I am also examining a potential Brexit response loan schemes for farmers, fishermen and for longer-term capital financing for food businesses; for which my Department has secured €25 million of funding in 2018.

As a further support to tillage farmers I introduced the Tillage Capital Investment Scheme under TAMS II which opened for online applications on the 8 March 2017. The specific areas of investment include Minimum Disturbance Tillage Equipment, Sprayers, Rain Water Harvesting, Grain Storage and Grain dryers.  

There has been a significant level of interest in investments by the tillage sector, with a total number of 775 applications received so far and 637 approvals. Over €1.38m has now issued in respect of 120 payment claims. Payments will continue on an ongoing basis. This is the latest of the Targeted Modernisation Schemes (TAMS II) to be launched under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020. The Scheme is co-funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Last year in response to the exceptionally challenging harvest conditions of September 2016 I introduced a Weather Related Crop Loss Support measure to assist farmers who experienced significant yield losses in spring cereal crops. This measure provides for a financial contribution of up to €200 per hectare up to a maximum of 35 hectares per eligible applicant towards the cost of uninsured spring cereals crop losses in excess of 30% by yield.  Particularly hard hit growers who experienced cereal crop losses in excess of 50% benefit from an additional €100 per hectare, on the same area. A total of 167 applications for support were received in the Department by the closing date of August 26 and are currently being processed. To date payments totalling €314,032 have issued to 68 applicants.

While the challenges facing the sector at this point in time are real, in Ireland we can grow cereals with the highest yields in the world and this is an advantage we must press home and also look to exploit other areas under our own control. For example, my own Department provides a high quality official crop seed certification scheme to the industry in addition to an extensive national crop variety evaluation programme. I would also encourage tillage growers to fully implement the advice and research provided by Teagasc in relation to efficient and sustainable production of crops. My Department remains committed to assisting all involved in the sector to optimise efficiency and sustainability.

Dairy Sector

Questions (505)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

505. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the future prospects for the dairy sector with particular reference to export markets; the extent to which the sector continues to achieve high quality and competitiveness on international markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7452/18]

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Written answers

The Deputy will be aware that Ireland’s plans for growth in the dairy sector are formally set out in Food Wise 2025, Ireland’s blueprint for the overall agrifood sector, where an all of sector agreed approach is set out including actions, benchmarks and targets for the dairy and other sectors. Notwithstanding challenges on the horizon, amongst which Brexit is paramount, stakeholders in the Irish dairy sector are well placed to benefit from expanding global demand.

Analysis from Bord Bia and my Department, both based on CSO data, demonstrate the resilience of the Irish food and drink export sector, and the dairy export sector in particular. Whilst full year CSO data becomes available towards the middle of this month estimates made by Bord Bia for their Annual Performance and Prospects publication provides a positive assessment of Ireland’s performance in 2017 as well as our prospects for 2018 in both the food and drink sector, and the dairy sector in particular.

2017 was the eighth consecutive year of export growth for the food and drink sector as a whole, with the dairy sector, which comprises more than a third of the total, having the strongest performers in terms of export growth for the year. Bord Bia analysis indicated that for the year as a whole the value of food and drink exports is estimated to have increased by 13%, (€1.5bn) to €12.6bn representing growth of almost 60% or €4.7bn since 2010.

Furthermore, driven by increased production and higher dairy market returns, the analysis found that Irish dairy exports increased by 19 percent in 2017 to €4.02 billion, an increase of €655 million. It should be noted that this figure as used by Bord Bia excludes dairy based Prepared Consumer foods as well as enriched dairy based powders which, if included, increases this export figure in respect of dairy related products by a further €900 million approximately.

In terms of prospects for 2018, as a small, open economy, Ireland’s relationship with trading partners around the world is a key driver of our success in this global food business. Based on this we can say that the prospects for dairy exports in 2018 look positive. The rates of growth recorded in 2017 for key product areas and the ongoing demand levels in Europe and international markets for powder based products, butter and cheese bode well, as does the fact that wholesale prices remain very high reflecting international demand.

Ireland exports more than 85% of our milk and dairy produce to markets all around the world. In the context of the Food Wise strategy, and as a key part of our Brexit response I, with my Department and Bord Bia, will continue efforts to widen our access to third country markets, as well as deepen existing trading relationships, including through inward and outward trade missions.

Mushroom Industry

Questions (506)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

506. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the mushroom industry here can be assisted or improved in view of the impact of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7453/18]

View answer

Written answers

I am committed to working with the mushroom sector to assist it in adjusting to the challenges that lie ahead.  The UK is a very important market for Irish mushrooms accounting for approx 85% of our annual production.

Access arrangements to the UK market post-Brexit will depend on the outcome of the UK’s Brexit negotiations with the EU. However, during this period the Irish Government’s position will continue to be to minimise the impact of Brexit on existing trade for all our food exports including mushrooms. My Department and its State Agencies are currently providing supports on a number of fronts.

Budget 2018 provided for a new “Brexit Loan Scheme” which will provide affordable, flexible finance to Irish businesses that are either currently impacted by Brexit or who will be in the future. The new Brexit Loan Scheme will make up to €300 million of working capital finance available to SMEs and mid-cap businesses (up to 499 employees). This will give Brexit-impacted businesses, including potentially a number of mushroom exporters, time and space to adapt and to grow into the future. I am also considering the development of a potential Brexit response loan scheme for farmers, fishermen and for longer-term capital financing for food businesses; for which my Department has secured €25 million of funding in 2018.

The EU Producer Organisation (PO) scheme is also a vital support, with around 80% of Irish mushroom growers in a producer organisation at present. This scheme provides an important mechanism for growers to achieve greater bargaining power in the marketplace by becoming part of a larger supply base. This scheme is funding a number of initiatives to improve competitiveness, including Lean Training for mushroom growers. In addition, the National Strategy for Sustainable Operational Programmes 2017-2022 for Producer Organisations in the Fruit and Vegetables sector provides aid for crisis prevention and management measures to assist with market volatility, including training and exchange of best practice measures.

For the wider horticultural sector the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector continues to be the main support for individual growers in the horticulture industry who wish to make capital investments in specialised equipment or buildings. Budget 2018 allocated €5m in funding again for the Scheme in 2018, further reflecting this Government's commitment to ongoing support for the sector. The competitive nature of this scheme combined with its flexibility and ability to react to evolving situations are two key strengths in supporting this highly dynamic sector.

I can also confirm that An Bord Bia has commenced a 3-year mushroom promotion campaign on the Irish and UK markets. This campaign is co-funded by the industry and the European Commission. It is important to emphasise that the overall market for mushrooms in the UK and Ireland remains strong, showing good potential for further growth. This new promotion campaign will build on the success of previous similar initiatives and develop that growth in potential to increase exports.

Beef Imports

Questions (507)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

507. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he remains satisfied that Irish beef and beef products on European markets are not likely to be affected by imports from third countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7454/18]

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Written answers

Ireland is the largest exporter of beef in the EU, with more than 90% of such exports (more than 80% of total production) sold in EU markets, including the UK.

Such exports occur in parallel with imports from 3rd countries, which, in 2016 for example, amounted to approximately 330,000 tonnes.  However, the creation of further preferential import arrangements for additional volumes of beef, for example from the Mercosur bloc, which has significantly lower production costs and different production standards, has the potential to put downward pressure on EU prices in a sector where margins are low or negative without EU subsidies.

The Commission’s own assessment of the cumulative impact of trade deals shows that the beef sector is particularly vulnerable and that Ireland stands to be most affected.  This assessment did not take account of Brexit which could, depending on the outcome, have a dramatic additional negative impact on the EU  beef sector. Some 51% of Irish beef exports are to the UK.

We also know that beef consumption in the EU is relatively static. Gross production in 2016 was approximately 7.88 million tonnes with consumption reaching 7.941 million tonnes. The most acute concern however, relates to the high value cuts market of between 600,000 and 700,000 tonnes, which is likely to be targeted by Mercosur importers. These represent approx 8% of carcase weight but up to 30% of carcase value.

As a small open economy, Ireland supports trade liberalisation and recognises the benefits of trade agreements with third countries, which can potentially give rise to increased exports and job creation. However, such agreements must be balanced and must serve both our offensive and defensive interests. I will continue to protect the interests of Irish farmers in negotiations on such matters in the future.

Poultry Industry

Questions (508)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

508. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the degree to which the poultry sector here is set to compete with or gain from issues arising from Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7455/18]

View answer

Written answers

Brexit, no matter what format it takes, will have an impact on Irish agriculture across all sectors by virtue of their exposure to the UK market. It does not provide any upside for Irish agriculture, and it is for this reason that I will continue to be firm in arguing that any agreement reached between the EU and the UK must allow for continued free access to the UK market, without tariffs, with minimal additional customs and administrative procedures, as well as a minimisation of the risk from UK trade agreements with third countries.

The agri-food sector is of critical importance to the Irish economy in that its regional spread means it underpins the socio-economic development of rural Ireland in particular.

While the most immediate impact of Brexit has been the difficulties caused by the significant drop in the value of sterling against the euro, the anticipated longer-term challenges will arise in relation to regulations and standards (in the event that there is no agreement on transition arrangements or the finalisation of a framework for the future relationship), export certification (including animal and plant health certification) and tariffs (in a hard Brexit scenario food exports could in theory face very high WTO tariffs, for example of over 50% for dairy and over 60% for beef. Tariffs for exports in certain poultry products could exceed these levels).

The overall value of Irish poultry exports have increased by around 3 percent for 2017 to €295 million in value, with volumes only rising by 1 percent during the same period. The number of poultry birds processed in Ireland reached record levels at 96m birds. During the same period Irish imports decreased by 7 percent reflecting increased preference for Irish product in the food service channel. The great majority of Irish poultry exports continue to go to the UK which records almost 80 percent market share for 2017 or some €240m. The share of Irish poultry exports going to other EU markets has edged upwards to 10 percent, with France maintaining its position as the most important market especially for leg meat that is not consumed on the home market. Increasing market access is a key priority for the sector and will support further export reach. Some recent developments to open trade could lead to new opportunities, such as the EU-Japan free trade agreement.

Fisheries Protection

Questions (509)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

509. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which fish stocks have improved or otherwise in the aftermath of ongoing EU fisheries conservation policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7456/18]

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Written answers

Ireland’s goals for sustainable fisheries are supported through the Common Fisheries Policy. The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) provides the framework for the long term conservation and sustainability of fish stocks around our shores and is designed to ensure the long term sustainability of fishing in Ireland and throughout EU waters. The CFP utilises the best scientific advice as a key determinant in setting annual fishing quotas. Key features of this policy include setting Total Allowable Catches (TACs) and quotas to deliver maximum sustainable yield (MSY) by 2015, where possible, and in all cases by 2020 as well as a discards ban (Landing Obligation) to be phased in over the period 2015 to 2019.

Setting fishing levels on the basis of Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) is an essential aspect of the policy. Fishing opportunities are agreed on an annual basis at the EU Fisheries Council of Ministers on the basis of a proposal produced by the European Commission that is informed by the best available scientific advice. The Common Fisheries Policy specifically calls for the progressive restoration and maintenance of populations of fish stocks above biomass levels capable of producing MSY.  To achieve this, the FMSY exploitation rate shall be achieved for all stocks by 2020 at the latest. This should ultimately lead to healthy fish stocks, higher quotas for both Irish and EU fishermen and lead to more sustainable fishing patterns.

There has been a marked improvement in the state of many stocks in the waters around Ireland. For example, there has been a 34% increase in our whitefish quotas off the North-West coast and a 64% increase in the Irish Sea. These are both areas that were severely depleted just five years ago. This shows that the many years of intensive, industry led conservation measures are paying off. The work done to rebuild these stocks has led to significant increases for quotas for our fleets.

The objective of the landing obligation is to eliminate the wasteful and unsustainable practice of discarding. The first part of the landing obligation, the ban on discarding pelagic stocks such as herring and mackerel, came into effect on the 1st of January 2015.  The landing obligation was extended to certain demersal stocks (whitefish and prawns) from the 1st of January 2016 and will be fully phased in by the 1st January 2019.

Scientific information on the state of the fisheries exploited by the Irish fleet is compiled by the Marine Institute and is published in the Stock Book each year. The most recent Stock Book, 2017, contains 74 stocks that are subject to the scientific advice of the Marine Institute. Of those 74 stocks, 29 were assessed as being sustainably fished in 2017. This number has grown every year since 2013. This in turn leads to the number of stocks being overfished declining from 22 in 2014 to 17 in 2017. The biomass of stocks, the quantity of mature fish in the sea, has also increased. In 2017 there were 27 stocks in a positive state above biomass trigger points. This is an increase over the preceding year of 22.

The EU Commission has also noted that the state of fish stocks continues to improve which indicates that we are seeing the benefits of prudent and responsible fisheries management practices.

I am confident that we will continue to make significant progress that will ensure the continued economic viability of our fishing fleet and fish processors while supporting the communities that depend on a vibrant fishing industry.

Food Safety Standards

Questions (510)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

510. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which Irish and EU food traceability standards continue to apply with particular reference to imports from third countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7458/18]

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Written answers

Primary responsibility under EU law for food safety, hygiene and traceability of food placed on the market lies with food business operators.

Regulation (EC) No. 178 of 2002 sets out the general principles and requirements of EU food law and stipulates that food business operators must, at all stages of production, processing and distribution within their business, ensure food law requirements are satisfied. In regard to traceability, the regulations require that food business operators have what is referred to as the ‘one step forward, one step backward’ traceability system.

The role of National Competent Authorities is to verify compliance with these requirements. This is done by inspecting establishments and auditing the food safety management systems which food business operators have in place. Verification can also include the taking of official controls samples for verification of food business operators compliance with food law.

Since 1999, responsibility for the enforcement of food legislation is vested in the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.  The Authority co-ordinates the work of its official agencies through service contracts which specify the food sectors to be supervised, the types of controls to be provided including inspections and laboratory analysis.  The main official agencies under contract to the FSAI are the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Health Service Executive, the Local Authorities and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority. The contracts are published on the Authority’s website and their performance is subject to regular checks and audits.

The collective work of the FSAI and the official agencies is set down within a comprehensive Multi Annual National Control Plan for Ireland 2012-2017, which is submitted to the European Commission and against which the FSAI and the official agencies are audited by the Commission on its implementation.

The system of official controls covers all foods produced or marketed in the State, including imports.  

My Department has a permanent veterinary presence at all its approved slaughter plants. Controls at plants only engaged in secondary processing are carried out at a frequency based on an annual risk assessment. An annual audit of imported products is carried out in each Department-approved plant, including checks on physical identity, labelling and documentary checks for product originating in EU Member States and third countries. Labelling and documentary checks are routinely conducted by the Department in accordance with the relevant EU regulations.

 The import of products of animal origin from third countries is governed by a comprehensive and robust legislative framework laid down at EU level, controlled by Member States in the first instance, and audited by the European Commission’s Directorate General for Health and Food Safety (formerly the FVO), to ensure compliance with all of the relevant food safety standards. The legislation imposes health and supervisory requirements designed to ensure that imported products meet standards equivalent to those required for production and trade between Member States. Border Inspection Posts are operated by my Department. Import control procedures on products of animal and fish origin are highly prescriptive and strictly audited by the Directorate to ensure compliance. Inspection reports are published on the Directorate General for Health and Food Safety’s website

Imports of food of animal origin are the subject of specific authorisations before they can be placed on the market in Ireland or the EU. Imports of foods of non-animal origin are subject to compliance with all relevant EU rules. These are subject to market checks during the course of routine inspections and/or are tested as part of the annual extensive microbiological and chemical monitoring programmes.  The FSAI also receives information on foods which may pose a danger to health from the European Commission through the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed.

Question No. 511 answered with Question No. 482.

Alternative Farm Enterprises

Questions (512)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

512. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent of deer farming; the domestic and-or export markets for venison; the extent to which the industry can grow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7460/18]

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Written answers

Deer farming in Ireland is an alternative farming enterprise which is extremely reliant on the supply and demand dynamics that affect all agricultural production systems within Ireland.  In 1996 there were approximately 500 deer farms in Ireland with 20,000 deer, but numbers have declined significantly since that time.  There are now only a small number of farmers in Ireland supplying deer for meat production to cater to the niche market available.

Its viability is dependant on producers and companies ensuring that there are customers available for their product, an objective which Bord Bia assists in by identifying potential market outlets. Bord Bia has received a few enquiries from venison producers about export market opportunities in the UK and has provided assistance with market insight and importer and distributor contacts. 

There has been some recent growth in the game (venison) market albeit from a very low base. This growth has been achieved as a result of improved distribution for game meats, especially in supermarkets. Game and exotic meats currently occupy a premium, niche segment of the market. It is important to note that demand is seasonal, with the greatest concentration of retail shelf space dedicated to game in the Winter/Christmas period.

My Department has approved one factory for the slaughter of deer in Ireland. There may also be outlets for processing of venison in local authority approved plants, but this would be a matter for the local authority concerned.

Agricultural Production Costs

Questions (513)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

513. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the degree to which his Department monitors the costs of farm inputs such as fertilisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7461/18]

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Written answers

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) monitors and collects data on the price of fertilisers on a monthly basis. In addition, my Department receives data on the type and quantity of fertilisers and lime sold on a quarterly basis from industry and both sources are used to calculate the overall input costs of fertiliser on a national basis.

Total Irish fertiliser costs of €503.2m were recorded for 2015/16. There was an increase of 1.1% in the quantity of fertiliser used during this period to 1,411,913 tonnes. For 2016/2017, sales of fertiliser increased by 10% to 1,552,809 tonnes. Data supplied by the CSO shows a reduction in the cost of fertiliser of 14.9% for the year 2016. Accordingly, the projected input fertiliser cost for 2016/17 is marginally up at c.€505.2m, albeit based on increased sales volumes.

Currently, Europe is only 80% self-sufficient in fertiliser production and must import 20% of its requirements. As such, European and Irish fertiliser prices are strongly linked to global prices and heavily influenced by supply and demand.

Herd Data

Questions (514)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

514. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the strength of the national beef herd, the dairy herd, the pig herd and the sheep flock; the extent to which numbers have fluctuated over the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7462/18]

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Written answers

The national beef, dairy, pig herds, and sheep flocks make an enormous contribution to Ireland’s agri-food industry which in 2017 grew to a total of €13.5 billion.

One of the key indicators of the strength of the different sectors in Irish agriculture is the growth in exports over the years.

Since 2010, the value of Irish beef exports has increased from €1.57 billion to €2.5 billion, the value of dairy exports has increased from €2.27 billion to €4.02 billion, the value of pig meat exports has increased from €336 million to €712 million and the value of sheep meat exports has increased from €163 million to €275 million. This increase in the value of exports has been realised notwithstanding the challenges the different sectors have encountered in recent years, the most recent of which is of course Brexit.

The numbers of livestock in the different sectors over the last ten years have fluctuated from enterprise to enterprise. Within the last ten years dairy cow numbers based on the CSO June livestock surveys increased from a total of 1,087,000 in the June 2007 survey to 1,432,700 in the June 2017 livestock survey, which itself was an increase of 2.5% from June 2016. This increase has been driven to a large extent by the abolition of milk quotas in 2015.

In relation to the size of the national beef herd, the number of non-dairy cows recorded by the CSO June livestock survey shows a decrease of 2.1% from 1,103,700 in June 2016 to 1,081,000 in June 2017. The CSO Livestock survey for June 2007 showed the number of non-dairy cows as 1,180,000 head. The total size of the national beef herd will of course comprise both the progeny of the national suckler herd as well as non-replacement stock from the dairy herd.

The size of the national sheep flock based on census returns over the last ten years has risen from a low of 3.07 million sheep in 2009 to a high of 3.91 million recorded in the 2016 census.

With regards to the size of the national pig herd, the method of data collected was changed in 2011 and since then numbers according to the pig census have risen from a low of approximately 1.35 million pigs in 2012 to a high of approximately 1.6 million pigs in 2016.

Animal Slaughtering Data

Questions (515)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

515. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which adequate slaughtering facilities remain readily available to meet the needs of beef, lamb and pig producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7463/18]

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Written answers

All slaughter plants whose meat is destined for human consumption must meet the requirements set out in detailed EU food safety regulations, generally referred to as the ‘Hygiene Package’. These regulations are implemented in Ireland under the European Communities (Food and Feed Hygiene) Regulations 2009 (S.I. No. 432 of 2009). Large scale slaughter plants and all plants involved in equine slaughter operate under the supervision of my Department.  Primary responsibility for the safety of food placed on the market lies with food business operators (FBOs).   

The slaughter process and the handling of animals going to slaughter take place under strictly supervised conditions.  My Department has a permanent presence in each of the slaughter plants under its supervision and Department staff, with the assistance of temporary veterinary inspectors engaged on a contract basis, carry out regular checks as park of official regulatory controls.   

My Department currently approves 153 establishments, ranging from cold-storage facilities to large slaughter and cutting plants processing a wide range of species including bovine, ovine, porcine etc.  41 of these establishments cater for Beef, Ovine and Porcine slaughter.   

While my Department is responsible for the approval, supervision and regulation of the slaughter industry, the provision of slaughter facilities is a commercial issue.

A full list of these establishments can be found on my Departments website at http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/foodsafetyconsumerissues/dafmapprovedestablishments

Proposed Legislation

Questions (516)

Thomas Pringle

Question:

516. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the new penalty points system for fishing offences will come before Dáil Éireann; if it will be brought to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine for scrutiny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7484/18]

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Written answers

As the Deputy may be aware, the Supreme Court judgments were delivered on 12th December 2017 in relation to the 2014 SI implementing a points system for licence holders.  My Department is currently examining the implications of the judgments on an urgent basis.

I expect this process to be completed shortly and thereafter I intend to sign a new Statutory Instrument to revoke the European Union (Common Fisheries Policy) (Point System) Regulations 2016 (S.I. No. 125 of 2016) and to establish a point system, which will apply to the Licence Holder of a sea-fishing boat when a serious infringement of the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy is detected.  

GLAS Applications

Questions (517)

James Browne

Question:

517. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of a GLAS application by a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7490/18]

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Written answers

The person named was approved into GLAS 2 with a contract commencement date of 1 January 2016 and has received all payments in respect of 2016.

The 2017 advance payment has been delayed due to an increase noted in the applicant's commonage claim. This is currently being examined by my Department. Once all validations are passed the 2017 advance payment will be made. GLAS payments are continuing to issue on a weekly basis.

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