Knackery Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2019

Tuesday, 22 October 2019

Ceisteanna (440, 443, 448)

Declan Breathnach

Ceist:

440. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the knackery industry cannot continue as it stands at present in view of the fact that it is no longer financially viable to stay in business; if written confirmation will be provided to an association (details supplied) outlining commitments given at a meeting on 16 September 2019 between the organisation and his officials confirming the immediate commencement of a bridging scheme to address the financial crisis in knackeries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42930/19]

Kevin O'Keeffe

Ceist:

443. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to ensure that progress is made between his Department and an association (details supplied) to ensure that fair rates are set to meet the increasing cost of this service by the industry; and if his attention has been drawn to the serious consequences which could arise should there be further disruptions to the collection of fallen animals here. [43054/19]

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

448. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if commitments given on the commencement of a bridging scheme to address the financial crisis in knackeries will be honoured in full as per the agreement reached on 16 September 2019 between his officials and an association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43167/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

I propose to take Questions Nos. 440, 443 and 448 together.

I am fully aware of the value of the Knackery industry to the farming community and fully appreciate the integral part that knackeries play in the protection of Ireland's food industry.

For this reason, my Department is committed to putting together a scheme that will provide for significant financial support and which will stabilise and will restore a level of competitiveness to the industry. 

I understand that another meeting has been arranged between Department officials and the Animal Collectors Association to discuss this matter further.