Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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475. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the new schemes being considered for introduction to develop the artisan food sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38585/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy may be aware that support for artisan, micro and small food producers is currently provided by the LEADER Food Initiative which is funded by my Department and is implemented by Local Action Groups under the aegis of the Department of Rural and Community Development. Eligible funding includes support for businesses in the artisan food and beverage sector in areas such as market development, competitiveness, and innovation and including the renovation and extension of production facilities and the purchase of processing equipment.

I was pleased to announce that the LEADER Food Initiative is continuing this year as part of the CAP transition period. In line with a commitment in the Programme for Government, the maximum rate of aid available has increased from 50% to 75% for project applications received on or after 1st April 2021.

In regard to any new scheme for the artisan sector in the context of the next CAP, the Deputy may be aware that the development of the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023 - 2027 involves a number of stages. I have, with my officials, continued to engage extensively with stakeholders. I expect to shortly bring a memo to government and launch a public consultation on the draft interventions proposed for the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027. Further public consultations on the development of the future Plan are being considered.

Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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476. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which he continues to monitor the potential market growth for Irish food and food products globally; the markets or products that have shown the greatest potential; the extent to which he expects to maximise the impact on these markets in the future having particular regard to current geopolitical developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38586/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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According to CSO data, between 2016 and 2020, the value of Irish agri-exports to international markets, outside the EU and UK, has grown by 16.3% to €4.42 billion last year.

The Department is committed to further supporting this diversification strategy and continues to allocate significant resources to the pursuit and development of new markets for Irish agri-food exports drawing on the experience and expertise of staff in different functions, including veterinary, laboratory, policy and technical divisions.

Securing, developing and maintaining access to third country markets outside the EU is a key priority. To support that objective, agricultural attachés have been appointed to Embassies in key markets including China, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the United States and the United Arab Emirates. They perform a vital role in monitoring developments in priority markets and expanding the global footprint of Irish agri-food exports generally, particularly in countries that have recently concluded trade agreements with the EU.

Priority markets are decided in consultation with industry and Bord Bia. The role of the Department is to gain access to markets and it is up to the industry - with the support of the Department and Bord Bia, including through Ministerial Trade Missions - to capitalise on those opportunities. Building on its significant investment in consumer and retail insights, Bord Bia plays a vital role in the successful growth of our food and drinks exports, by promoting the safety, quality and sustainability of our Irish food and drink exports. Its efforts are not just focused on achieving commercial growth, but also in growing the reputation of Ireland’s food, drink and horticulture offering, deepening the relevance and bond between our country’s produce and the markets and consumers they serve.

Over the last year, the agri-food sector has again demonstrated its resilience in keeping supply chains moving and product on shelves in Ireland and abroad, despite the disruption arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall long-term outlook for the sector remains positive due to continued population growth, changing consumption patterns and Ireland's ability to produce high quality products with a strong reputation for food safety and sustainability.