Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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1049. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has considered setting up a beef regulator given the issues raised by farmers regarding beef prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8876/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, there is a commitment in the Programme for Government to the establishment of a new authority, to be called the National Food Ombudsman (NFO) or similar, to enforce the Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) Directive. The new authority whose remit will include the beef sector, will have a specific role in analysing and reporting on price and market data in Ireland. It is important to be aware, however, that this authority will not have a role in determining price.

Establishment of the NFO is ongoing and firstly requires the drafting of a statutory instrument to transpose the UTP directive before the deadline of May 2021. Legislation is then required to establish the new office of the NFO. It is intended that there will be a national consultation process on the functions of the NFO prior to the primary legislation being enacted.

In addition, the Beef Taskforce work on price transparency and the completion of the three market transparency studies commissioned by my Department will be an important step towards improving visibility of the complex supply chain which is integral in fostering trust and enhancing supply chain relationships. These studies will act as an important starting point for driving increased transparency. It is more important than ever that we all work together given the unique set of challenges currently faced by the sector. Continued strong and constructive engagement in the Beef Taskforce is key to meeting these challenges.