Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:182 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his plans for the expansion of lamb exports in 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28650/00]
Written Answers. - Lamb Exports.
Bord Bia, which has responsibility for the promotion and marketing of lamb, will continue to seek new markets and will endeavour to maximise returns from existing markets for lamb during 2001. About 65% of Irish lamb is exported with a large portion of this going to the French market. The balance is accounted for by the Mediterranean markets, Spain and Portugal, Germany, Belgium and the UK.
In France this year Bord Bia has been carrying out promotional campaigns identifying Irish lamb. These campaigns are targeted at regional level for maximum effect. Currently Bord Bia is in discussions with Interbev and MLC regarding the possibility of an EU-wide joint generic lamb promotional campaign aimed at younger consumers who tend not to eat lamb. In addition to these promotional activities Bord Bia will engage in trade liaison, trade marketing and in-store promotions with retailers of Irish lamb.
The market for light Irish lamb on the Mediterranean markets in 2000 was mixed. The situation is likely to continue in 2001, which means that the main focus of Bord Bia's activities will be to maintain existing trade relations and, where possible, to build new ones. Development of the market for lamb cuts to the German market is a priority for 2001. The number of plants cutting lamb continues to increase and this is leading to increased volumes available for export. Bord Bia will be supporting and assisting the development of this trade. The Belgian market is important for early lamb and trade development activities there will concentrate on this aspect of the market.
In addition, following the recommendation of the sheepmeat forum, Bord Bia's quality assurance board is working on the development of a lamb quality assurance scheme. The introduction of such a scheme would confer great benefit on the lamb trade and would help to enhance the image and product profile of Irish lamb on export markets.