Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 January 2022
323. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the outcome of discussions at the recent European Council of Agriculture Ministers in relation to the serious difficulties facing the pigmeat sector at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2801/22]
View answerI clearly expressed my concerns in relation to the difficulties facing the Irish pigmeat sector at the this week's Agriculture Council, both in relation to the ongoing impact of increases in fuel, fertiliser, feed and energy prices over recent times which are putting farmer margins under significant pressure, and the sustained nature of the difficulties being experienced on the pigmeat market. I sought the rapid deployment of appropriate solutions on both issues.
The average price paid for pigs in Ireland has fallen in recent months, in line with trends across the EU. The 2021 average price was 8.71% lower than that of 2020.
The first week of 2022 (w/e 9th January) saw the average grade E pig price come in at 142.72 €/100kg, 8.14% lower than the same week last year. However, this is still well above the EU average price of 132.15€/100kg.
My officials continue to monitor the market situation closely and I have met with stakeholders to discuss concerns this week. Our pig farmers have always been remarkably resilient but I am acutely aware of the challenges they are facing at present.
