Representatives from the drinks industry will be before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine today for a discussion on the contribution of their industry to the agricultural sector.
It is estimated that the industry supports approximately 12,000 farm families in Ireland, through the purchase of produce such as barley, apples and milk.
Committee Chairman Andrew Doyle TD said, “Brewing and distilling in Ireland have a longstanding relationship with Irish agriculture and have always been very significant drivers of the economy in many rural areas. “We will engage with DIGI on the current outlook for the drinks industry. The large capital expansions of Diageo’s St James’ Gate facility and Jameson’s Midleton distillery are testament to the confidence and ambition within the sector.
“The presentation is also expected to touch on the revival of Irish whiskey, with the many new distilleries coming on stream in recent years driving demand for Irish barley.”
“Our Committee looks forward to engaging with drinks industry representatives on the impact of their industry on the rural economy, its agricultural purchasing strategy and the ambitious plans for the future.”
Separately, the Committee will engage with a number of major farming organisations on the Agri-taxation review, which was announced in this year’s budget by Minister for Finance Michael Noonan TD with Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney TD. Representatives from the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association and Macra na Feirme will address the Committee.
© 2014 - Checkout Magazine by Conor William O’Brien
