Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 February 2024
74. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 33 of 14 December 2023, for an update on the work of the wool council; if the €30,000 in departmental funding has been drawn down to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8243/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraOne of the key recommendations of the Wool Feasibility Study was the establishment of an independent, all-island wool council that would be industry-led and comprise multiple stakeholders from the wool sector, including primary producers, farmers and commercial enterprises willing to fund research and marketing activities. In support of this recommendation my Department committed financial assistance of €30,000 in seed funding.
The Irish Grown Wool Council, established in April 2023, is an independent body with members from both sides of the border. My Department does not have a seat on the council and it does not report to me. However, I am aware that the Irish Grown Wool Council has done internal work around its structures and governance. It has also recently held its first AGM to discuss motions such as the appointment of council members and an independent chairperson.
The main external activity carried out since the establishment of the Irish Grown Wool Council was their recent participation in the Design & Craft Council Showcase 2024 at RDS in late January. The participation in the event included three one hour expert discussion panels.
The Irish Grown Wool Council also used the used the event as an opportunity to launch their IGWC Brand and new website www.irishgrownwoolcouncil.com
I also understand that €7,920 of the €30,000 seed funding has been drawn down to date and that another drawdown claim has recently been submitted to my Department.
