Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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1739. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps the Government is taking to support Irish whiskey producers affected by the imposition of new trade tariffs by the United States; whether specific contingency supports or export diversification strategies are being developed to protect this key indigenous sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45115/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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The publication of the Joint Statement between the European Union and the United States is welcome in terms of the clarity it brings for exporting businesses. The Statement confirms that a single, all-inclusive tariff on EU goods of 15% applies, except where the MFN rate is higher.

This is a positive outcome for some agri-food products.  However, these tariffs will continue to present challenges for our spirits sector. It is disappointing that spirit drinks have not been included in the limited list of exemptions to the 15% tariff ceiling. However,  the EU and US have committed to work on expanding this list of exemptions further in the future.

I will continue to make the case that spirit drinks sector should return to the longstanding “zero-for-zero” tariff arrangement, which underpinned a mutually beneficial relationship between the Irish and US spirits sectors. As the EU and US have had zero for zero tariffs for spirit drinks for many years prior to April, I would very much hope that that situation can be restored and spirit drinks could be included in a future list of exempt products.

Together with Minister Noel Grealish, who has responsibility for new market development, I will continue to support new market development and market access efforts for our quality, sustainable food and drink products. The publication of the Government Action Plan on Market Diversification shortly will be a welcome step in that regard.

On an on-going basis, my Department has regular engagement with industry to ensure that their needs and concerns are heard, and supports industry in any appropriate actions they may take relating to the success of Irish Whiskey on the global marketplace. My Department has also funded equipment in the National Brewing and Distilling Centre in Teagasc, Oakpark in Carlow. This facility allows producers to develop and innovate new products to meet consumer demands and tastes in the global market.

As the Food Promotions Board, Bord Bia carries out promotional activities for the category, funded as part of its annual budget provided by my Department. It uses its research and insights to target opportunities in the global market. For information on specific promotion activities, the Deputy may wish to contact Bord Bia directly at their dedicated Oireachtas contact e-mail - Oireachtas@Bordbia.ie