Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 382: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the value of Irish beef exports that are exported on the hoof; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4565/05]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 383: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the value of Irish beef exports annually; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4566/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 382 and 383 together.

The value of Irish beef exports to all markets in 2004 was €1.5 billion, representing 25% of total Irish agri-food exports. Of this figure the value placed on live cattle exports is €116 million.

The EU now comprises 90% of our total beef exports compared with 49% in 2000. The focus of the Irish beef industry is to broaden and expand its market reach at EU retail level, shifting its orientation away from international commodity markets and into the higher priced EU marketplace. An increased presence in this high-value market is the key to the success of the beef industry in the long term.

I am fully committed to ensuring that the option of exporting cattle live to overseas countries is maintained, as it preserves competition in the beef trade. The Department, together with Bord Bia and the Department of Foreign Affairs, will continue to seek to exploit every opportunity to expand the market for the live trade and beef exports.