Patricia Ryan
Question:794. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of the PGI application for grass fed Irish beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31441/20]
View answerTuesday, 20 October 2020
Questions (794)
Written answers
Designation of a food product as a PGI (Protected Geographical Indicator) enables consumers to trust and distinguish quality products while also helping producers to market their products better.
The Bord Bia PGI application for "Irish Grass Fed Beef", drafted on behalf of producers, focuses on the reputation of high quality beef product produced through Ireland’s grass-based production system. Successful registration of the name would endorse and build on the already identifiable reputation and image of Irish beef products in the marketplace.
In accordance with the National Opposition procedure required by the EU Regulation, the PGI application and specification document were published on 14 August 2020. The period for submissions ended on 11 September 2020. I can confirm that 22 submissions were received. My Department is currently assessing those submissions. The PGI application is also the subject of discussions with farming representative bodies at the Beef Task Force. Consequently, the matter is still the subject of a deliberative process.