Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
1298. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will advise the engagement his Department has had with other Government Departments on revitalising the Irish wool industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38262/23]
View answerUnder the Programme for Government I undertook a review of the potential demand in domestic and international markets for wool and wool based products and I delivered on this Programme for Government commitment with the publication of the Wool Review Report in July 2022.
The main recommendation of the Wool Review Report was that an independent Wool Council led by industry would be established. This independent Council would develop and promote Irish wool domestically and internationally and bring together multiple stakeholders to foster collaboration, innovation, and scaling activities in the wool sector.
The Independent Irish Grown Wool Council was officially launched on 5 April 2023. The launch was very well attended with representation from all sectors of the wool industry including primary producers, farming organisations and industry from both Ireland and Northern Ireland present on the day.
My Department does not hold a seat on the Council. Further details regarding the Irish Grown Wool Council, and any engagement they have had with other Departments as part of their work, can be obtained directly from the Council by contacting irishgrownwoolcouncil@gmail.com.
