Agriculture Minister shows concern for cattle market
The Minister for Agriculture Joe Walsh is expressing concern for the Irish cattle market this autumn.
Announcing the publication of the Irish Agriculture Review, Minister Walsh says it is essential that we regain overseas markets lost to BSE.
This review comes in the wake of the double blow to the Irish agriculture sector by BSE and foot and mouth.
Despite this, Minister Walsh says the outlook is good.
Agriculture accounts for 10% of GDP and a projection predicts that it will continue to grow.
There are however, fears for the cattle export market this autumn and Minister Walsh says it is essential that we reopen overseas markets closed because of BSE.
The review also points out that Ireland has benefited to the tune of IR£24bn from the EU since becoming a member.
Commenting on the forthcoming Nice Treaty referendum, Minister Walsh urged Irish people to protect Ireland' agriculture sector and support the treaty.
