Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 July 2022
899. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the degree to which markets remain lucrative throughout Europe and further afield for Irish lamb and lamb products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39310/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIrish sheep farm families produce a world-class product that is in demand cross many global market.
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) sheepmeat exports worth approximately €385 million, or 57,737 tonnes were exported in 2021, an increase of 8.3% in value on 2020. The overall market outlook for Irish and EU lamb prices for 2022/2023 remains reasonable, although Irish lamb prices are forecast to experience some decline from the record high levels received in 2021.
Nonetheless, for the week commencing 27 June, the year-to-date average price for sheep meat was 730.55c/kg which is a 18% increase on the same period in the previous year.
I am, however, acutely aware of the potential pressures being faced by many sectors across the agriculture industry due to the increase in input costs. Since the invasion of Ukraine, I have taken a proactive approach to dealing with the massive challenges arising for the agri-food and fisheries sector.
Farming is not alone in dealing with these challenges, but our sector is particularly exposed as a result of the invasion. I have taken a proactive approach, through the various measures I have announced since this crisis started, to support our farm families and their businesses and I will continue to do so.
Securing market access and diversifying trade remains a key aim for my Department. Developing market opportunities at home and abroad is one of the goals of Food Vision 2030. Irish sheep meat exports continue to thrive.
The top three markets in terms of value last year were all in the European Union (France, Germany and Sweden).
In terms of international markets, I was delighted to announce in April the agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on a veterinary health certificate for the export of Irish sheep meat to the US. Securing agreement on a bilateral health certificate allows Irish sheep meat plants to formally apply for approval to export to the US. I hope to see exporters take advantage of this significant opportunity as soon as possible.
