Paul Bradford (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me this opportunity to raise an issue that is of significant concern to pig farmers throughout the country. I am delighted to welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Tom Hayes, to the House. He and his family have a long-standing knowledge and experience of the industry in question. As such, I am sure he has a particular concern for the pig farmers who are currently facing severe financial distress.

The Minister of State will be aware that a strategy for the future development of the agricultural and food sector, Food Harvest 2020, was devised by predecessors in his Department, along with their civil servants and representatives of the industry. Under those proposals, it was forecast that the pig industry might grow by as much as 30% or 40% in the coming years and produce significant additional output and jobs. It would, in short, be a win-win situation for all concerned. Unfortunately, however, the current crisis caused by the outbreak of blue ear disease in pigs could put all of that potential at risk.

I will not go into the background of the recent disease outbreak; I am sure the Minister of State is fully acquainted with it. I am asking that he and his officials sit down with the affected parties and various interest groups to see what can be done to provide relief. It has been estimated that up to 33% of the national herd is affected, which equates to some 48,0000 sows. Pig farmers are losing significant income as a result of the disease outbreak, at a time when they have spent extensive moneys in providing facilities required under the EU animal welfare regulations. In fact, an estimated €40 million was spent by pig farmers across the country by way of investment in animal welfare measures.

Now their income stream is being absolutely decimated. I am advised, for instance, that the national pig kill could be down by 10%. Some of the processing units, instead of working five or five and a half days per week, are currently operational for only three or four days. Jobs and income are being lost as pig farmers face this very grave crisis. Will the Minister of State give serious consideration to providing financial compensation? This is a sector which has had many difficult days and difficult battles but was certainly on the road to improvement.

Significant amounts of money have been taken from it and if we want the 2020 plan to succeed and to ensure the future of a strong pig industry in this country, with all that it offers, we must provide immediate financial assistance.

I ask the Minister to treat this crisis with the utmost seriousness and to offer some form of financial response.