Minister Charlie McConalogue joins Donegal companies on Agri-Food Trade Mission to West Africa

Donegal Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD., led an Agri-Food Trade Mission to West Africa last week.

It focused on developing trade and economic relationships between Ireland and the region. During his visit he met with Donegal companies Gallagher Bros. and Norfish Limited who both supply seafood products to Kingfisher, a seafood wholesaler in Nigeria, at a fish market.

With engagements in both Nigeria and Senegal at the Government-to-Government level, the Trade Mission identified opportunities to collaborate with UN Agencies whom Ireland partners with in addressing food security and humanitarian needs in the region, while supporting the development of sustainable food systems.

The visit also included a range of engagements aimed at promoting Irish agri-food, seafood and beverages, in a region where demand for affordable high-quality products - which Ireland is renowned for - is increasing.

Speaking on his return to Ireland, Minister McConalogue stated: “We are committed to further developing our strong trading relationship with West Africa as a destination for Irish seafood.

"Nigeria is Ireland’s fifth largest seafood export market, where we continue to be a leading supplier of Blue Whiting and Mackerel. The popularity of Irish products in this marketplace can be attributed to Ireland’s international reputation as a producer of high quality and sustainable seafood coming from a regulated and safe environment."

He added the Irish seafood industry is well placed to meet the needs of the West African market.

"We welcome the opportunity to strengthen trade links between our countries. I was glad to have the opportunity to support great Donegal companies while on my trade mission.”