Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Despite the adverse move in the euro-sterling exchange rate, export sales of food and drink have increased by 6%. This reflects the quality of work by everybody involved in agriculture. Each of the budgets I have been involved in have built on the work of my predecessor, Deputy Noonan, in looking to put in place targeted support through both targeted tax measures and investment to support Irish agriculture.

I agree with the Deputy on the major challenge Brexit poses for farmers, particularly small farmers. This is why we have put in place the kinds of supports I have outlined. The Deputy will be aware of the large number of Brexit-ready seminars taking place throughout the country to inform everybody involved in the economy, including in agriculture, of the support available to help them deal with a changing world. The 6% increase in food and drink exports indicates what is being achieved collectively.

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