Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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92. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to establish veal units at two locations nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41701/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that the establishment of meat processing facilities is a commercial matter. I can confirm that my Department does not currently have any open applications for the approval under the European Communities (Food and Feed Hygiene) Regulations 2009, S.I. 432 of 2009 for any veal processing units - if my Department were to receive such an application, it would, of course, consider it in accordance with the relevant regulations.

It should be noted that Ireland traditionally produces very small quantities of veal. Live export trade of calves has increased significantly in the last number of years and serves primarily European markets where there is a domestic demand for veal.

Live exports are a critical part of the infrastructure of our livestock industry. They play a significant role in stimulating price competition and provide an alternative market outlet for farmers. My Department facilitates this trade, recognising its critical importance to the agri-sector, while ensuring that live animal exports meet the highest welfare standards. I continue to prioritise efforts to gain access to new third country markets and, equally importantly, to deepen existing markets for live exports.