Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 489: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which the overseas market for Irish beef has expanded or fluctuated in each of the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33046/06]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The following table sets out details of beef exports for the last five years.

I am committed to broadening access for Irish beef on all export markets. My Department works closely with Bord Bia and the Department of Foreign Affairs to further this aim.

Ireland produces about 520,000 tonnes of beef annually, over 90% of which is exported. More than half of those exports go to the UK with about 40% going to the high value Continental EU markets. This excellent result which is in line with stated policy for the sector has been achieved largely by effective marketing and promotion by the industry and Bord Bia and the delivery of a high quality, competitively priced product. The outlook for Irish beef exports is also positive with the decreasing production trend throughout Continental Europe. The EU is predicted to have a beef supply deficit of 350,000 tonnes in 2006 with this shortfall offering an opportunity for Irish beef producers to further consolidate their position in this market. While there has been a significant reduction in reliance on third country markets in recent years, these destinations will continue to be important alternative outlets for Irish beef and I will continue my efforts to ensure that as many as possible of these Third Countries are open to our exports.