Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 672: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of deer farms in the State; the number in each county; the purpose of the farms; the number of deer farms which provide venison for home consumption and solely for export; if deer is farmed for any other purpose; and, if so, the person by whom. [1957/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The number of deer farms in the State is estimated at 250. A breakdown by county is not readily available.

Deer farmers are engaged in raising deer for the production of venison with some farmers being involved in breeding animals and selling the calves while others are involved in finishing animals until they are ready for slaughter. Deer farming is geared exclusively to the production of venison.

The main outlet for Irish venison is the export market where 70% of production is sent, mainly to the UK. Development of the sector is affected by the low volumes involved. However, Irish venison is a specialised, high quality product and markets have been established here and abroad in the retail and catering sectors.