Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
2136. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the current status of the all-island protected geographical indicator application for beef; the expected timeframe for PGI status to be in place; the projected impact that the PGI will have on beef prices for eligible produce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43448/22]
View answerIn December 2021, following scrutiny by the European Commission, the application for a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for “Irish Grass Fed Beef” was published in the Official Journal of the European Union for a three month ‘opposition procedure’ which was open both to EU Member States and third countries.
Following the submission by the UK, the European Commission invited both parties to engage on the application. Discussions between my Department and its UK counterparts were successfully concluded in July 2022, with agreement that the geographical area covered by the application will cover island of Ireland. Other than changes associated with the extension of the area, there was no substantial change to the product specification.
In early August, the European Commission was notified of the agreement and will advise on progress of the next steps, which will include a further European Commission scrutiny and a further consultation/opposition procedure at EU/third country level.
Achieving a PGI for Irish Grass Fed Beef will present a strong opportunity to add value for Irish Grass Fed Beef exports to key markets, based on a well-established reputation of excellent quality based on our unique pasture-based production system. It is my expectation that the PGI status will benefit the hard work of suckler and beef farmers on the island of Ireland.
