Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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1447. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the research his Department, State agencies or other researchers have carried out in relation to the potential for wool to be used for alternative purposes other than clothing production, such as insulation, fertiliser and so on; if his Department will engage with wool producers to discuss alternative markets and diversification in the context of current difficulties with the Chinese market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22086/20]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Wool production is an important component of agri-industry and Ireland produces excellent quality wool. In an industry such as the wool industry where prices tend to move in cycles, it is imperative that the players ensure and promote a diversity of options for the product in the market place. The current market uncertainties should provide an impetus for the industry players to come together to see what business opportunities are out there and try to promote the excellent product in as many markets as possible.

While I am not considering the establishment of any research on wool in relation to new or alternative uses for raw wool, I will of course consider any proposal that the industry wishes to submit to me in this regard.