Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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491. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the current strength of the poultry sector; how the situation in relation to export stands; if he has concerns about the volume of poultry products being imported into the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53407/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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I am very aware of the contribution of the poultry production sector to Irish agri-food sector as a whole, supporting significant levels of direct employment and contributing to the rural economy.

Securing market access and diversifying trade remains a key aim for Government. Developing market opportunities at home and abroad is one of the goals of Food Vision 2030. The recently launched Action Plan on Market Diversification is further testament of our commitment.

Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures show that last year the value of Irish poultry meat exports increased from €285.7 million, to €294.7 million compared to 2023. The latest CSO figures (YTD Jul. 2025), show that the value of poultry exports for 2025 stands at €195.1m, a 18.8% increase on the corresponding 2024 figure (€164.2m).

2025 has shown signs of growth in overall poultry production with slaughter figures, as of Week 38 of 2025, up by 6.3% on the same period of 2024. The most recent comparable monthly price would also indicate strong performance within the Sector, with the September 2025 price for Whole 'Class A' Chicken, being approximately 4.9% higher than the price being achieved 12 months previous.

The predominant outlet for Irish poultry meat is the Irish retail market for fresh raw product. While the majority of poultry meat sold at retail level is Irish, the vast majority of poultry meat sold in the food service sector is imported. CSO figures show that in 2024, the value of Irish poultry meat imports increased from €578.1 million to €626.9 million compared to 2023.

As in other meat sectors, global trade conditions will be crucial in determining the outlook for the Irish poultry sector over the medium to longer term. However, I firmly believe that the poultry production sector in Ireland is in a strong position.