Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy's argument seems to be predicated on the fact that the UK decision to leave the EU means we will lose a market for 43% of our exports. It will undoubtedly be challenged and this is why, for example, I have visited the UK twice to meet major multiples that buy substantial volumes of our exports. I will meet Andrea Leadsom, my UK counterpart, tomorrow to indicate that we are open for business and that, notwithstanding the challenges we face in the context of Brexit and the immediate adverse impact of currency fluctuation for Irish producers, we will not walk away from the market we understand best.

Food Wise 2025 is not the Department's blueprint; it is the industry's blueprint for itself. There is a high-level implementation committee and the Brexit decision has been placed on the agenda for every one of its meetings. We are, therefore, not burying our heads in the sand. Part of our strategy is to copperfasten our foothold in the UK market and part is to examine other market opportunities. There is no silver bullet or single policy option. Farmers are prudent. They will make the appropriate investment decisions themselves based on what they perceive to be the macro circumstances in which they operate.

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