Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:186 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on the prospects for deer farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28654/00]
Written Answers. - Deer Farming.
I believe that the prospects for deer farmers are particularly favourable at the moment and I am pleased to see that both demand and prices for venison have shown great improvement this year. The Venison Industry Board, which received funding from the Interreg programme, is now actively involved in the marketing of venison and I expect this to put the market on a sound basis for expansion. Additional slaughtering facilities for deer were approved by my Department this year and exports in 2001 are expected to be maintained at current levels.
Deer are included under the area based compensatory allowance scheme which will be in operation next year and further assistance for the housing and handling of deer will be available under the regional operational programmes. Funding will also be available under the REP scheme. Participation by deer farmers in the organic REP scheme would also meet the need for the production of a quality assured product which is so important to today's consumer and can command a premium price.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:187 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the extent of growth anticipated in relation to deer or venison exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28655/00]
I am pleased to see that the outlook for deer farming has improved this year and this improvement is reflected in increased demand and prices for venison. It should also help to grow the export market.
An estimated 5,500 deer were processed in Ireland during 2000. Of the total, around 4,000 were red deer while 1,500 were fallow. All fallow venison produced was exported while around 90% per cent of red deer was for export. Total exports of venison in 2000 are estimated at around 200 tonnes valued at almost £800,000. The main markets for Irish venison during 2000 were the UK, France, Germany and the United States.
Exports of venison in 2001 are expected to be maintained at similar levels to this year but I am hopeful that the increased confidence in the industry will be reflected in increased exports next year.