Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

16. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the development of wine production in Ireland; the supports available from his Department and agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13681/25]

Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I wish the Minister and the Ministers of State well in their important roles. On the diversification of farm activity, I was rather surprised that this question was chosen and that we have reached it. The question relates to wine production in Ireland. This is a growing activity. I would be grateful if the Minister of State would outline the approach of the Department and any supports that may be made available for those who choose to cultivate vines.

Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Byrne for submitting this question. The Department operates a number of schemes in the horticulture sector. They may be availed of by wine producers in the context of the grape-growing aspect of their production. The two schemes are the scheme for investment aid for innovation and diversification in horticulture, which supports feasibility and desk studies, and the scheme of investment aid for innovation and diversification in horticulture, which provides funding for capital investment. These schemes are aimed at increasing innovation and diversification in the horticulture sector. The feasibility studies scheme is aimed at small- and medium-sized enterprises, SMEs, engaging in primary horticulture production which would like to innovate and diversity in the horticultural industry. The capital investment scheme is intended to assist in increasing innovation and diversification in horticulture with grant aid in capital investment and specialised plant and equipment to microenterprises and SMEs active in primary horticulture production. A number of vine growers have been supported under this scheme in the past.

A budget of €8.5 million was allocated for the implementation of these schemes in 2025.

The call for applications closed in February. Should these schemes reopen for applications in 2026, this will be widely advertised through the Department's website, on social media, in the farming press and through stakeholders such as Teagasc and An Bord Bia.

Additionally, I encourage producers to engage with their local enterprise offices. These offices are a valuable resource to local small businesses because they can provide advice and sometimes funding to assist in the development of businesses. It may also be of interest to producers to make contact with their local action groups in respect of the LEADER programme. These groups contain local representatives from the community, public and private sector and award funding to projects within their geographical area in accordance with their local development strategy.

Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. Unfortunately, or fortunately, because of climate change the possibility of growing vines in Ireland has become more extensive. We are fortunate that parts of the country have a similar terroir or soil type to parts of northern France. Indeed, just outside my hometown of Gorey, La Kav vineyard is producing some very fine wines. The Ceann Comhairle will know about the Old Roots vineyard, which is located not far from her-----

Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

You have me there, Deputy.

Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

They are producing some very fine wines. Indeed, right around the country now quite a number of boutique vineyards are starting to produce wine in greater quantities and of higher quality. There is an opportunity to actively support those farmers and those involved in horticulture who want to move into the sector. In that context, I welcome the statement by the Minister of State.

Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is important to note that my officials participated in the European Commission high-level wine group last year. This group was established to develop policy recommendations to address issues in the European wine sector. While primarily aimed at reducing burdens currently impacting larger wine-producing countries, the final recommendations document produced by the group also recognised the importance of new and emerging wine producing countries, including Ireland. This may present an opportunity for further expansion in the cultivation of vineyards for wine production in Ireland. My Department will continue to monitor the pace of growth in this sector and is happy to engage with producers wishing to pursue this as an agrifood business, as part of the horticultural strategy. I would be delighted to sit down with any producers the Deputy would like to introduce to me. If there is any help or support we can give them, we will do so.

Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is important that we support this growing sector. I welcome the supports that are available already. We also need to promote the development of Irish wines, perhaps through Bord Bia. As the quantities start to increase, there will be an export market for some of these wines. I am very happy that officials are actively engaged on the issue.

Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

One of the first meetings I had when I was appointed was with Bord Bia. I was very impressed with the organisation. It has 14 offices around the world. We export to 114 countries and many of those exports are drinks that are produced in Ireland. If we can promote the wine industry here, I am sure Bord Bia will be delighted to do so. I will be happy to work with Deputy Byrne to ensure that happens.