Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

With the Mercosur agreement, it is absolutely appropriate that a clear and evidence-based impact assessment would be done to inform how we proceed. It is an appropriate way to go forward and make an argument at the European level about our concerns. With respect to equivalence of standards, it is essential that there is reference to how the beef should be sustainably produced and the impact on the environment. All of society expects us to meet our obligations and farmers are very much up for the idea of producing beef sustainably, so it is not acceptable for beef to be introduced from countries that do not follow those standards. It is something that must be central to the consideration of the Mercosur agreement.

As I outlined in my comments, we have a tremendous beef product and it is proudly served in restaurants and stacked on shelves and family fridges across the world. It is important we do all we can to advertise that, support it and look at the idea of protected geographical indication, PGI, status in order to better market it internationally. The Deputy can be sure that I will, as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, do all I can to support the sector, including farmers and producers in particular.