Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 587: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action taken to increase the prices being received by pig farmers for their animals; the advice he is giving to pig farmers regarding the future of the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26890/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The price paid to pig producers, currently stands at €150/100kgs. This is up 15% on last year and the price has been improving steadily over the past weeks. This positive development for producers has been assisted by the availability of export refunds, which has helped alleviate pressures on the EU market.

On the matter of advice to pig producers, Teagasc's programme of activities includes a significant element of research in the area of pig nutrition, health and welfare. The main objectives of the advisory function in regard to the pig sector are better profitability and competitiveness based on improved growth rates and this is delivered to producers through farm visits, conferences and newsletters. Teagasc prepared a development strategy for the Irish pig industry that identified the issues facing the sector and an Implementation/Steering Group is being currently set up. This group will consist of a small broadly based group that has the necessary stature and expertise to pursue the recommendations.