Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 111: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will implement the Malone report on the sheep industry in full; her timetable for the implementation of its recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2035/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The sheep sector is an important part of the overall agri-food sector and its future depends on its ability to meet the needs of the market. The Malone Report set the blueprint for the sector's future development and an implementation group was established to oversee the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report. Most of the recommendations contained in the report fall to be implemented by the industry itself but my Department and the state agencies under my aegis are also playing an active role.

The timetable for the implementation of the report varies according to the recommendation under consideration. Some recommendations have already been implemented whereas others are works in progress and consultations are ongoing in regard to their implementation.

Under REPS 4, a new mixed grazing measure specially targeted at sheep farmers has been introduced and development of this measure will be kept under review.

Plans for the upgrading of a Sheep Genetic Improvement Programme are well advanced and I hope that agreement can be reached and a new programme put in place for the 2008/2009 sheep breeding year.

Transparency on pricing is a pre-requisite for efforts to improve quality and respond to the needs of the market. Farmer confidence in the pricing system operated by plants will be improved if mechanical grading can be introduced. My Department is currently facilitating trials on this that commenced in March 2008.

Teagasc are making a very positive contribution as well and have developed a comprehensive plan to restructure their sheep support services, including a programme for Technology Evaluation and Transfer farms, which includes hill and lowland areas. This approach will provide an opportunity for developing a dialogue with sheep farmers about the application of the latest management practices to their enterprises and identify research and development needs.

The Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme was established in 2007. Bord Bia is also playing a prominent part. Almost 6,000 farms have been registered to date and over 4,200 farm audits have been carried out. In 2007 the Department made available €0.4m to support inspections under the scheme and this funding will be repeated again in 2008 and 2009.

In addition to the measures being taken at producer and processor level, promotional efforts are very necessary. Bord Bia will continue to organize strategic marketing campaigns marketing in selected European markets. The downward trend in lamb consumption in certain markets presents a real challenge. To address this, Bord Bia is collaborating with its French and British counterparts on a 3 year generic lamb promotion on the very important French market to promote lamb to younger consumers.