Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The voice of farmers is one that I take very seriously and is central to my considerations. The engagement with the beef task force is coming up and I will ensure that there are bilateral talks in advance of it between departmental officials and farm organisations. It is essential that there is a proper examination of the potential for this proposed PGI scheme. The research conducted on consumer markets and what appeals to consumers will be central to how we go about this in order that we leverage the best price possible for the very high quality product we are producing.

As Minister, I look to bringing this forward. I will engage with farmers and take on board their views and the market research conducted by Bord Bia, which is always important in how we market Irish food abroad and will be important as we seek to get a premium. I give the House a clear assurance that I see tremendous value in trying to get people behind a PGI, which the sector and all stakeholders can support. It will ensure we can market strongly abroad and build on Ireland's already strong reputation.

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