Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 November 2019
430. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans for a food-related trade mission to South Korea before the end of 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46484/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTrade Missions play an important role in promoting the Irish agri-food sector and in market development, and I have been very active on this front in recent years as we strive to gain and develop a presence in as many global markets as possible.
As part of my 2019 Trade Mission schedule, I led an agri-food trade mission to the Republic of Korea in June 2019. I used the visit to build on and promote Ireland's image in the Republic of Korea at the Korea Ireland Sustainable Dairy Forum, and at an EU Pork and Beef Seminar organised by Bord Bia. I also took the opportunity to provide assurances on Ireland's status as a safe, secure and sustainable source of agri-food products at Government-to-Government meetings as part of our determined effort to secure market access for Irish beef.
In response to the Government’s Global Ireland 2025 initiative, and in keeping with my Department’s efforts to help the agri-food sector to diversify its export markets, my Department is expanding its staffing in international locations over the period to 2025. Under this initiative, it is also intended that an attaché post will be established in Seoul in 2020.
