Marian Harkin
Ceist:72. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine for an update on the application of PGI status for boxty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18296/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 25 April 2024
Ceisteanna (72)
Freagraí scríofa
I am delighted that the application for a PGI for boxty has been submitted. Geographical Indications identify a product whose quality, reputation or other characteristics are linked to its geographical origin. Boxty is a traditional locally produced dish which is a great use of potatoes which have long been a staple of the Irish diet. It is deeply rooted in our heritage and I am eager to see it achieve recognition at EU level.
It takes an enormous effort to successfully get a PGI application over the line and only the best and highest quality products can reach that standard.
My Department, as the Competent Authority for Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), checks PGI applications to ensure that the application and product specification are compliant with the relevant European Commission Regulations governing the scheme.
PGI applications require scrutiny at a number of levels: this includes by my own Department, by stakeholders through the national opposition procedure, by the European Commission and by other Member States and third countries. The Boxty PGI applicant has engaged extensively with my Department and has undertaken important work to finalise their product specification and single document in line with the European Commission requirements. I am satisfied that the extensive engagements between my Department and the applicant group has strengthened the application.
My Department is currently examining the latest submission received from the applicant for the Boxty PGI. Once my Department is satisfied that the application is ready, the application can move to the next stage which is the national opposition procedure. This will give an opportunity for all interested parties to examine the application and submit any observations they may wish to make. Once that process is finalised and any oppositions dealt with in accordance with the EU rules, the next stage would be to submit the application to the European Commission for scrutiny.
I am very supportive of PGI applications such as this as they add value to our agri-food products as well as highlighting their heritage.