Michael Ferris
Ceist:64 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has any plans to assist in the marketing of Irish farmhouse and specialty cheeses abroad in 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cheese Marketing.
The production of Irish farmhouse and speciality cheeses has increased in recent years in response to favourable export demand and are enjoying much success abroad. I believe that the industry will continue to develop such markets. However, the marketing of Irish cheese abroad is essentially a matter for the dairy industry itself. The services of Córas Tráchtála are, of course, available to assist farm cheese exporters as they are to all other Irish exporters.
I would also point out that direct assistance by the State in the marketing of cheese and other products is strictly prescribed by the rules governing the granting of State aids.