Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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236. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concerns in relation to the inadequate pigmeat processing capacity at present due to shortage of qualified personnel; if measures will be implemented as a matter of urgency to address this matter as delays in processing pigs will lead to animal welfare issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50100/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Department has had extensive engagement with representatives of the meat processing sector, including those in the pigmeat sector, with regard to current challenges in the supply of labour.

In the first instance, employers should avail of the range of supports available from the Department of Social Protection to recruit from labour markets domestically and in the European Economic Area (EEA). Meat processors must also continue to intensify efforts to make these roles more attractive and I acknowledge their ongoing efforts in this regard.

However, it may also be necessary to make use of work permits for applicants from labour markets outside the EEA. The Department is currently liaising on this issue with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, who have primary responsibility in this regard.