Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 80: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the measures she will introduce to alleviate the difficulty facing the pig industry, in view of the clear disparity between the profitability of the pig market at EU level when compared to the Irish sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13056/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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A clear disparity does not exist between Irish and EU pigmeat prices and Irish pigmeat prices have been both above and below the EU average over recent months. The EU pigmeat sector as a whole has been experiencing difficulties. For my part, I have taken significant action to help alleviate the problem.

I have worked with my EU Ministerial colleagues to put in place measures aimed at improving the income situation of pig farmers and ameliorating some of the difficulties being caused by the increased cost of inputs. Increased production of cereals is expected on foot of the modification of set-aside rules, and import duties have been abolished on certain feedstuffs.

Steps have also been taken to support the pigmeat market. These consist of an aids-to private storage scheme that was available during November and exports refunds for fresh and frozen pork which are still available.

Teagasc has prepared a development strategy for the Irish pig industry which identified the issues facing the sector and makes certain recommendations. A group, which includes representation from my Department, has been established for the purpose of furthering those recommendations.

The Intensive Livestock Group was established in my Department to assist the sector to find solutions to manure disposal problems and financial assistance is available towards welfare-friendly sow housing. On the marketing front Bord Bia has expanded the pig quality assurance scheme, (which has EN45011 status), with a view to increasing membership and they have also conducted an intensified pork and bacon promotion campaign.