Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 26 September 2017

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Future of Tillage Sector: Discussion

4:00 pm

Mr. James Kelly:

It should be recognised that Irish malt and barley is recognised as being one of the best quality malt and barley crops in the world. The proof of it is that in years gone by it formed, and still forms, the base product for one of the world's best known brands, namely, Guinness. Unfortunately, however, it is becoming less attractive for people to grow malt and barley. This is unfortunate in light of the booming whiskey and distilling industries. Irish malt and barley growers will have to be rewarded adequately for the whole industry to survive.