Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 251: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will meet with multiples operating in the Irish retail industry to emphasise the urgency of the situation facing pig and poultry producers here and the need to ensure they get a higher price for their produce. [22902/07]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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I am fully aware of the issues facing the pig sector at present particurlary those concerning high feed prices. I met recently with representatives of the sector at which meeting this issue was discussed.

While I appreciate the argument for increased pigmeat prices to compensate for higher input costs, the Deputy will be aware that I do not have a role in price setting. I am glad to see, however, that the recent trend in Irish producer prices is upwards with an increase of 7% in the past couple of months.

The issue of labelling of pigmeat was also discussed at the meeting.The situation on this is that draft legislation is currently with the Department of Health and Children which will require the origin of pig, poultry and sheepmeat to be shown on its label. A public consultation on this proposal is currently taking place on the website of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland after which it will be necessary to seek the approval of the European Commission.

I have also asked Bord Bia to intensify its autumn pork and bacon campaign.