Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2021
695. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which his Department has reviewed the future prospects for the Irish lamb sector with particular reference to market penetration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60488/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraSheepmeat exports worth approximately €356 million, or 64,100 tonnes were exported in 2020, an increase of 12% in value and 3.5% in volume on 2019. The top five destinations account for 80% of sheepmeat exports with France the number one destination, accounting for one third of exports, with Great Britain, Germany, Sweden and Belgium as the next most important destinations. The outlook for Irish and EU lamb prices for 2021/2022 is stable, with global sheep meat prices projected to remain good. Irish lamb prices are forecast to increase by 7% on 2020. Currently the year to date average price is €6.93/Kg which is a 33% increase on the previous year. Teagasc forecast that the average sheep farm income is to increase by 6% in 2021, following a 24% increase in 2020.
According to the FAO, global sheepmeat prices in real terms are expected to remain high over the next decade, as contractions in flocks will reduce global supply and restrict trade from the two leading exporters: Australia and New Zealand. Consumption is expected to remain relatively stable to 2030.Securing market access and diversifying trade remains a key aim for my Department. I was pleased last week with the announcement that the US ban on sheep meat exports from the EU has been lifted. My officials will now engage with US authorities on the next steps to full access and to ensure that Irish sheepmeat exports to this valuable market will be able to commence as soon as possible.
