A local Senator has highlighted the importance of the poultry industry in the Northern Sound Region.
Speaking in the Seanad this week, Senator Robbie Gallagher outlined that Ireland imported €629 million worth of poultry products last year.
Approximately €165 million worth of poultry was exported.
Senator Gallagher questioned the reasons for importing so much poultry product.
He highlighted that the poultry industry employs upwards of 3,000 people in Cavan and Monaghan.
The Senator called for the Minister for Agriculture to address the situation.
Senator Gallagher said: "Turning to the poultry sector, last year we imported €629 million worth of poultry products into the country, while we exported approximately €165 million worth of poultry. The poultry industry employs roughly 5,000 to 6,000 people throughout the country.
"Of that figure, the vast majority, 2,000 to 3,000 people, are based in the Border counties, including in my area of Monaghan and Cavan. According to the Minister for agriculture, the majority of the poultry in our retail shops is imported.
"I would like if the Acting Leader could organise for the Minister for agriculture to come into the House so we can have a debate in relation to the beef and poultry sectors and perhaps get a few answers as to why we are importing the quantities of beef and poultry that we are.
"It raises many questions, and if the Minister were in this House, he may very well be able to give us the answer to those questions," Senator Gallagher added.
