Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 July 2020
508. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has received a submission from the beef crisis discussion group; if he has met the group; if not, his plans to meet the group; his strategy to deal with the issues and the plan put forward by the group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16826/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that a representation was received by my office on behalf of the Beef Crisis Discussion Group last week. A response to the issues raised is being prepared and a reply will be issued in due course.
My Department and I engage on an ongoing basis with sector stakeholders on a range of issues.
The Programme for Government outlines the priorities regarding agriculture, including, with regard to the Beef Sector:
1. Ensuing the Beef Market Taskforce implements the agreement reached with stakeholders in the beef sector.
2. Ensuring greater transparency, cooperation, and fairness in the beef industry throughout the supply chain – from farm to fork.
3. Ensuring that the challenges beef farmers have been dealing with are recognised and supported under the next CAP.
4. Encourage the establishment of more producer organisations in the beef sector, to provide farmers with the opportunity to build strength in the marketplace.
5. Work at EU level for the development of a Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) for Irish beef.
6. Prioritise funds for the promotion of beef in key markets through Bord Bia.
7. Acknowledge the important and unique role that the suckler sector plays in the beef industry and commit to developing supports that recognise this critical role.
