Vol. 512 No. 5
79 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the anticipated overseas markets for lamb in the next 12 months; if new markets are a prospect; if access to previously established markets is assured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26542/99]
Exports of sheepmeat in 1999 are estimated to be 3.5% higher than 1998. The main markets are France, which takes over 75% of our sheepmeat, Germany, United Kingdom and the Mediterranean countries, to which our lighter lambs are exported. It is estimated that exports to the latter destinations increased by over 60% this year. Our export markets are likely to be largely unchanged over the next 12 months. An Bord Bia, who have responsibility for the promotion and marketing of sheepmeat, will continue to seek new markets and are currently looking at markets in Scandinavia.
