Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 July 2020
941. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to provide a bespoke financial scheme to support the pig sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20238/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTAMS II measures provide grants for capital investment in physical assets to assist the agriculture sector, including the pig sector, to develop their businesses. An increase in the investment ceiling for the Pig and Poultry Investment Scheme under TAMs was a key recommendation from the PISG and this is currently being put in place. Other supports stemming from the PISG's work cover animal health, biosecurity and the LEAN Programme. The Lean Programme for the sector was rolled out in 2019 by DAFM in partnership with Bord Bia, Teagasc and Enterprise Ireland, and has continued to operate in 2020, within the confines of the restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2019, approximately one-third of Irish pigmeat exports in value terms went to international markets. My Department continues to pursue the opening of new markets for pigmeat and the enhancement of existing ones in consultation with stakeholders. Currently, Irish pigmeat can be exported to a broad range of international markets including Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the USA. In May, the opening of the Mexican market to Irish exporters was achieved. With a population of more than 120 million, the Mexican market represents a substantial opportunity for Irish pigmeat exports.
There are no plans at present to provide an additional financial scheme to support the pig sector. The grade E average pig price for 2020 to date is 8.1% higher than in 2019. Currently, the Irish price stands at €1.63/kg, 10% above the EU average.
My Department and I will continue to closely monitor the sector on an ongoing basis and, in partnership with all stakeholders, implement appropriate measures as necessary.
