Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 October 2004
45 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has plans to establish a beef strategy board to plan and develop the beef industry into the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24508/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe focus of the Irish beef industry in recent years has been on broadening and expanding its market reach at EU retail level, shifting its orientation away from international commodity markets and into the higher priced internal EU marketplace. This forms part of the market strategy set in place jointly by Bord Bia and the industry and which has seen a marked shift in EU market penetration. Whereas the industry exported 50% of its products into non-EU markets throughout the 1990s, this contrasts sharply with the situation today where the EU market absorbs some 83% of total exports. Moreover, the total level of exports has increased steadily in the last five years. These increased sales into continental Europe coincide with the emergence of a EU market deficit in beef for the first time in 25 years.
Ireland is now well placed to consolidate this position, having demonstrated the quality and safety of Irish beef through its broad appeal to EU consumers. A targeted approach based on quality production represents the best and most profitable way forward to the Irish industry. This in turn highlights the importance of good breeding policies, payment related to quality and modern techniques which mechanical grading will provide. The industry must continue to consolidate its competitive base in the EU high value market and I believe the best way to withstand competition and build on our own already strong presence in this market is for our beef industry to maximise its efficiency levels at all stages and continue to offer the type and quality of product required by the market.
It should be noted that while there has been some pressure on producer prices in recent weeks, prices for this year are 10% above 2003 levels.
