Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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The Minister said in his speech there would be an increase of €1.6 million for Bord Bia. The actual document states that it is €2 million. We are in the territory of a 6% increase, which is not sufficient for Bord Bia's needs. Without the potential of food tariffs being applied in 2019, a standard increase might be fair enough. However, with the value of our exports to the UK at almost €5 billion and almost €4 billion in imports, a €2 million increase for Bord Bia is very low. With a €2 million increase there will not be an aggressive campaign as required to bring our food products to other markets. That €2 million will not cut much mustard internationally especially when 40% or 50% of our product goes to the UK. There is a lack of ambition there. I do not want to waste money but the food sector will be hardest hit by Brexit. If the Minister had proposed €4 million or €6 million, I do not believe the committee would have told him he was overspending, but €2 million looks very small. I think he has lowballed it. Whoever put the figures together does not seem to realise the impact Brexit could have on the food sector.