Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

1459. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine with the forthcoming enforcement of the EUDR in January 2026 and the ongoing UK-EU SPS/trade negotiations, if he will provide the latest number of agrifood exporters in Cork (and Munster) directly impacted by SPS paperwork or checks; the awareness-raising programmes conducted by the Department in Cork since January 2025; and the number of firms that have applied for supports/compensation in relation to regulatory transition burdens. [60136/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As part of the EU-UK Summit in May 2025, the EU and UK have outlined a commitment to working towards the establishment of a common SPS area under a future EU-UK SPS Agreement. At present, negotiations have not commenced, and the negotiating mandate authorising the opening of negotiations between the EU and UK is currently being finalised.

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) does not fall under the category of SPS checks. This is a market surveillance measure which is currently under discussion with regards to simplification at EU level.

My Department produces around 80,000 veterinary export certificates a year to accompany Irish agrifood exports to the UK. This data is not available on a County basis. A comprehensive SPS agreement would eliminate the requirement for almost all of these certs and greatly reduce the administrative burden on agrifood businesses exporting to the UK.

I have been and will continue to closely follow progress on both of the issues raised by the Deputy and my Department will engage with relevant stakeholders on developments.