Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The delegation attended the trade mission to China last month. How important are trade missions in promoting the Irish food sector? Given the fact that new markets could be opening in Iran and Japan, will demand for our food produce, particularly beef and lamb, exceed production? The delegation referred to the role played by our embassies in developing trade. They tend to be smaller compared to those of other countries and have limited resources. While they work with Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Bord Bia, do they make a significant impact on trade abroad?