Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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196. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps being taken to counteract vegan propaganda which is particularly damaging to Ireland and its rural communities in view of the unique production and export capacity for beef here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49395/19]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Meat and Dairy Facts is a joint industry campaign to direct consumers towards science-based information about the nutritional benefits of meat and dairy, and the efforts that Irish farmers are taking to protect the environment and care for their animals. Its members include Bord Bia, Dairy Industry Ireland, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, the Irish Farmers Association, Meat Industry Ireland and the National Dairy Council.

I support this campaign to present factual information about the important role meat and dairy plays in our diet, and to demonstrate that Irish meat and dairy production meets the highest standards of food safety and quality, environmental sustainability and animal welfare.

Earlier this year I highlighted that Irish meat and dairy are critically important elements in a healthy, balanced diet, especially for children. I emphasised that Irish livestock farming, based on grazing in temperate grasslands, is among the most climate efficient in the world.