Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2021
380. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the future for Irish lamb remains attractive in both the export and domestic markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51925/21]
View answerI am very conscious of the important role that the sheep sector plays in the continued growth and development of our agri-food sector, and its valuable contribution to the rural economy.
The strong performance of the sector in 2020 has continued into 2021 and I am delighted that farmers are being rewarded from the market for their hard work. Reductions in production globally and increased demand are expected to support continued strong performance throughout 2021. The current average price is €6.13 per kg, which is 25% above the same period last year.
Bord Bia analysis suggests that retail demand for sheepmeat increased over the last year, as consumers invested more time in preparing home-cooked meals. In 2020, according to CSO data, 73% of sheepmeat products in value terms were exported to the EU, 12% to the UK and 15% to other third country markets. The value of sheepmeat exports to international markets increased significantly in 2020, but France remains the single most important export destination, accounting for a third of Irish sheepmeat exports in 2020.
In relation to the future prospects for Irish sheepmeat exports, the fundamentals are strong. According to the CSO, 2020 was a prosperous year for Ireland's overseas sheepmeat trade, with 64,000 tonnes exported to 38 international markets at a value of nearly €356 million. This represents an increase of 12% in value terms on 2019.
As with other meat commodities, my officials continue to work towards opening new outlets for sheepmeat and enhancing existing access to as many markets as possible for Irish sheepmeat. The Irish food industry is well positioned to gain from the opportunities presented by expanding global demand for high-quality Irish lamb, underpinned by the market development efforts of the Department, Bord Bia, the Irish embassy network, and the food industry.
I recently signed and exchanged formal protocols with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) that will pave the way for the export of sheepmeat from Ireland to China. This represents an important milestone in gaining access to the Chinese market.
My Department will continue to engage with stakeholders on maximising potential opportunities for Irish sheepmeat exports. I will continue to back and support our sheep farmers.
