Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
1552. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he remains satisfied in respect of markets for all poultry and poultry products in the post-Brexit era; the measures taken to find new markets if necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33816/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs a value-for-money source of protein-rich food, poultrymeat has seen an increase in demand in recent years. Ireland exports poultry to over 30 countries worldwide. According to the latest CSO trade figures, the volume of poultry exports rose by 8,000 tonnes to 144,000 tonnes in 2019.
The overall value of Irish poultry exports increased by 12% between 2016 and 2019. While the UK remained the single biggest destination market for Irish poultry exports, this trade has undergone some diversification with the value of poultry going to third country markets almost doubling in the same period. Egg exports have grown by 45% in value in the last four years.
As the end of the Brexit transition period approaches, my Department continues to actively pursue the opening of new markets and the enhancement of existing ones. My Department works closely with stakeholders, and is guided by Bord Bia research, in targeting its market access efforts. At present, my Depratment is seeking access to new markets such as Japan and South Korea for poultry and to Singapore for table eggs.
