Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

270. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on the application for PGI status for boxty. [17128/24]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Geographical Indications identify a product whose quality, reputation or other characteristics are linked to its geographical origin. My Department, as the Competent Authority for Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), checks PGI applications to ensure that the application and product specification are compliant with the relevant European Commission Regulations governing the scheme.

PGI applications require scrutiny at a number of levels: by my own Department, by stakeholders through the national opposition procedure, by the European Commission and by other Member States and third countries. The Boxty PGI applicant has engaged with my Department and has undertaken important work to finalise their product specification and single document in line with the European Commission requirements.

My Department is currently examining the latest submission from the applicant for the boxty PGI. Once my Department is satisfied that the application is ready, the application can move to the next stage which is the national opposition procedure. I am very supportive of PGI applications such as this as they add value to our agri-food products as well as highlighting their heritage.