Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
1661. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the degree to which the mushroom growing sector, North and South, can expect to rely on continued access to all previously established markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28427/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe mushroom sector is heavily dependent on the UK market with approximately 85% of Irish mushrooms destined for that market each year. Irish mushrooms account for approximately one third of all mushrooms consumed in the UK.
Access arrangements for the UK market post-Brexit will depend on the outcome of the UK’s Brexit negotiations with the EU. During these negotiations the Irish Government’s position will be to seek to minimise the impact of Brexit on existing trade for all Irish exports including mushrooms.
In addition my Department will ensure Bord Bia is provided with the necessary funds to support promotion of Irish food and drink on all markets. Indeed Bord Bia is currently engaged in a mushroom industry co-funded promotion campaign on the Irish and UK markets. This is designed to maintain the momentum achieved over the recent EU co-funded mushroom promotion campaigns.
