Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2004
185 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if it is intended to enhance marketing strategies for Irish agri produce abroad having particular regard to the emergence of extra competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5343/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe industry is facing an increasingly competitive and challenging external environment. An effective marketing strategy to promote Irish agri food produce is an essential prerequisite to future export growth. While primary responsibility for marketing Irish produce rests with the food industry, Bord Bia plays a leading role in developing export markets. Bord Bia devised a range of specialist marketing and promotion activities under the brand name "Ireland the Food Island" to enhance our international reputation as a producer of quality food produce. Significant progress continues to be made in overseas markets with exports of food and drink products increasing to €7 billion in 2003.
Bord Bia works closely with producers, processors and customers to develop new and repeat business opportunities in target markets. Its strategy for development of market potential in the new member states is to increase awareness of Irish food and drink products, particularly beef, dairy and beverages, at trade level. The focus is on developing trade in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland as these markets are regarded as having most potential for Irish meat and dairy products.
In the prepared consumer food sector, Bord Bia will host a major trade exhibition in Dublin later this year. It will target new customers from the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States. Bord Bia will conduct trade missions with Irish beverage companies to exploit emerging markets in the Baltic states and the gulf region. Initiatives in the pig meat sector will focus on building profitable and sustainable market niches in the UK, continental Europe and international markets.
It is my view that the amalgamation of Bord Bia and Bord Glas will lead to a more cohesive approach to the delivery of services by State agencies in the food sector. The combined expertise of an amalgamated body will bring together the synergy necessary to promote the food and horticultural industry.
I have also established the agri vision 2015 committee to identify the issues and opportunities confronting the agri food industry up to 2015. The group consists of industry experts and will set out the vision and strategies needed to develop this key economic sector.
