I propose to take Questions Nos. 2112 to 2121, inclusive, together.
In 2018, Ireland exported dairy products to approximately 140 countries totalling over €4.5 billion worth of produce, an increase of over 5% by volume compared to 2017 and another year of strong performance by the Irish dairy sector. I expect this increase in exports of Irish dairy products to continue into the future with increasing emphasis on third country markets.
With regard to 2019, the following table, based on Central Statistics Office data, outlines details in respect of values and tonnage to the United Kingdom, broken down for Great Britain and Northern Ireland for dairy exports for year to May 2019, the most recent figures released by the CSO.
Exports of dairy products to the UK
|
Great Britain
€000
|
Great Britain Tonnes
|
Northern Ireland €000
|
Northern Ireland Tonnes
|
Liquid milk
|
4,321
|
8,839
|
5,781
|
15,165
|
Cheddar cheese
|
118,519
|
40,374
|
218
|
38
|
Total dairy
|
368,881
|
122,909
|
38,319
|
25,467
|
Imports of dairy products from the UK
|
Great Britain
€000
|
Great Britain Tonnes
|
Northern Ireland €000
|
Northern Ireland Tonnes
|
Liquid milk
|
9,454
|
23,774
|
97,599
|
302,077
|
Cheddar cheese
|
18,883
|
5,454
|
151
|
40
|
Total dairy
|
145,123
|
88,063
|
110,628
|
310,572
|