Minister Michael Creed has launched a public consultation on Ireland’s next Agri-Food Strategy to 2030.

The public consultation is open until 1^st October 2019. The development of a new strategy for the agri-food sector comes at a crucial juncture for the dairy industry in Ireland. The strategy will be developed in the context of Brexit, CAP reform and the environmental challenges associated with climate change, ammonia emissions, biodiversity and water quality.

The consultation questionnaire addresses key issues such as the economic performance and viability of the agri-food sector and farm systems, the environmental challenges and animal welfare standards, generational renewal, the competitiveness and innovation in the sector and adding value in domestic and export markets.

Milk production in Ireland has increased from an average of 4.93 billion litres (average of 2007-09 output) to 7.57 billion litres in 2018. This is equivalent to a 54% increase in milk production or a 64% increase in fat and protein output. This exceeds the 50% target contained in the Food Harvest 2020 document, a full 2 years ahead of schedule.

Exports of agri-food products in 2018 were valued at €13.7 billion, representing 10% of Irish merchandise exports. In 2018, the most valuable sector in terms of agri-food exports are dairy products at €4.6 billion. Agri-food exports have increased in value by 73% since 2009. The Food Wise 2025 strategy includes a target to increase the value of agri-food exports to €19 billion by 2025, which on current performance should be achievable.

The consultation documents can be viewed via the following link: https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/customerservice/publicconsultations/

By Eamonn Farrell – Agri-Food Policy Executive