Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Senator Pippa Hackett):

I thank the Deputy for her continued interest in this matter. As she outlined, an independently compiled review of the wool sector, which was a programme for Government commitment, was conducted and published in July. The review contained findings and recommendations, including potential funding streams, market opportunities for wool and multiple areas for additional research and development. One of main recommendations of the review was the establishment of an independent wool council, which was widely welcomed by all stakeholders. The council will be industry-led and contain multiple stakeholders from the wool sector including primary producers, farmers and commercial enterprises. Once established, it is intended the council will lead the development and promotion of Irish wool both domestically and internationally. It will also act as a forum to bring together multiple stakeholders to foster collaboration, innovation and the scaling of activities in the wool sector.

I am fully supportive of the establishment of this independent, industry-led wool council, which can use the findings of the wool review as a roadmap to develop pathways towards maximising the true potential of Irish wool. I understand stakeholders in the wool industry have taken the initial steps towards the formation of the council. Once it has been established, my Department will commit to providing €30,000 in financial assistance towards the initial set-up costs. Given that has not happened, there has been no drawdown of the funds as yet but it is my hope the report and the council can help chart a roadmap for the industry to help drive increased returns for the great and sustainable product that is wool.

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