Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 September 2020
175. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the food sector in general and the artisan food sector in particular have been negatively impacted by Covid-19; the degree to which he expects to be in a position to identify such issues and assist in their resolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24424/20]
View answerLike other sectors of the economy in 2020, the Irish agri-food sector has been managing the impact of COVID-19. The entire agri-food sector was designated as an essential service from the start of the pandemic, and kept supply chains moving and supermarket shelves stocked with Irish food and drink, not just in Ireland but across our European and world markets. The closure of food service during the lockdown had a severe impact on certain agri-food sectors. I am satisfied that the wide range of supports provided across Government, and by my Department in particular, have helped to alleviate the worst economic impacts for farmers, fishers and the food and drinks industry.
With specific regard to artisan producers, my Department provides funding through the LEADER Food Initiative operated by the Department of Community and Rural Development for artisan, small and micro food businesses. Eligible funding includes the renovation and extension of production facilities, the purchasing of processing equipment, as well as support in areas such as market development, competitiveness, and innovation.
In addition, Bord Bia has been very active in developing some specific supports for small Irish food and drink suppliers impacted by Covid19 to develop their businesses. Some examples include:
- a series of podcasts / Webinars for businesses
- in terms of engagement with Irish retailers, a new initiative in collaboration with one retailer, whereby Irish suppliers in challenged sectors (fulfilling certain conditions and screening), will be fast tracked for immediate national listing
- collaborating with retailers on specific promotions of Irish Quality assurance produce, for example, farmhouse cheeses, horticulture produce
I want to acknowledge the important role that the artisan food sector has played in supplying locally sourced products during these difficult times and I encourage producers to engage directly with LEADER, Bord Bia and their Local Enterprise Office for the supports that are available.
