Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

When employment in inputs, processing and marketing is included, the agrifood sector accounts for almost 10% of employment. In terms of it contribution to the national economy, Teagasc research indicates that the agrifood sector is one if Ireland's most important indigenous manufacturing sectors, accounting for employment of around 167,500 people. It includes almost 700 food and drinks firms that export food and seafood to more than 160 countries worldwide. Economic activity in the agriculture and food sector produces a far bigger return than equivalent activity in other traded sectors of the economy. This is because agrifood companies source 74% of raw materials and services from Irish suppliers, compared with 43% for all manufacturing companies. All of this demonstrates the clear necessity to maintain a firm financial commitment to the agriculture sector through all available State bodies and, in particular, because of the uncertainties associated with Brexit.

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