Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Organic Sector in Ireland has seen a rapid expansion in the last year and I am focused on maximising the potential of this developing sector.

Bord Bia, under the aegis of the Department, continues to invest in identifying and supporting export market opportunities for Irish organic companies (including those seeking to export beef) through their network of 15 overseas offices and exhibiting at key trade events including Biofach, Europe’s largest organic trade fair in 2022 and 2023 and for the first time Natexpo in Paris in October 2023.

From January to June 2023, Bord Bia has conducted specific Organic sector research utilising both quantitative and qualitative research techniques with 2,500 Irish shoppers. This research looks at the future drivers for the organic category in Ireland and informs the key messaging and positioning for Irish organics to increase consumption domestically. Bord Bia have also submitted an application to the EU Commission for promotion of EU agricultural products. If successful €2.7 million will be awarded to Bord Bia to promote organic beef and lamb in four key export markets of Germany, Belgium, Sweden and Austria for three years (2024 -2027) of which 70% will be funded by the EU.

Funding of €1 million has been allocated towards the development and delivery of marketing Irish organic produce. Following the research and creative development stages, a dedicated national campaign will be launched in Autumn 2023 which will promote Irish organic food, drink and horticulture to domestic consumers helping to grow the awareness and understanding around Irish organic food.

My Department will continue to support the Organic Strategy Forum and work in partnership with Bord Bia in maximising opportunities and options to ensure all sub-sectors within Organics are promoted both in the domestic and export markets.