Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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143. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans for specific designation EU PGI status for Irish beef; the status of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23763/20]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Designation of a food product as a PGI (Protected Geographical Indicator) enables consumers to trust and distinguish quality products while also helping producers to market their products better.  

Following consultation involving a range of beef sector stakeholders early in 2019, it was agreed that the possibility of an application to include all Irish beef would be explored.  Bord Bia subsequently prepared an application on behalf of producers for registration of 'Irish Grass Fed Beef' as a PGI. In the course of preparing the application, Bord Bia consulted with stakeholders including through their Meat and Livestock Board, and also consulted with individual groups and the Beef Task Force.   

The PGI application is based on the reputation and quality of “Irish Grass Fed Beef”, which are a consequence of the predominantly outdoor pasture grazing production system.  

One of the legal requirements for a PGI application is a 'National Opposition Period' prior to its final submission to the Commission.  The closing date for submission of oppositions was 11 September.  Submissions received are now being considered by my Department. There will be further opportunity for discussion with stakeholders following this, including at the upcoming meeting of the Beef Taskforce. 

The next stage of the process will be submission of a final application to the European Commission.  The application will then be subject to detailed scrutiny by the EU and an opposition procedure will be provided by the EU for other Member States and third countries. If there was a satisfactory outcome, the application would be progressed for registration of the PGI.  

Our Irish grass fed beef is a respected product nationally and internationally, and that reputation is a reflection of the sustained efforts of farmers and all of those involved in striving to achieve the highest level of quality for our beef products. I welcome the opportunity provided by the EU Protected Geographical Indication scheme to assist Ireland in further communicating the characteristics and reputation of this quality product and importantly to protect that reputation from imitation.