Laois Offaly Minister returns from organic trade mission in Germany

Laois Offaly Minister of State Pippa Hackett has concluded a major trade mission to Germany with Bord Bia to promote organic Irish food and drink, according to the Department of Agriculture.

The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine led the drive to increase Ireland's organic exports began in Berlin on Monday and moved to Nuremberg for the BIOFACH trade fair, the world’s largest organic trade fair.

The Geashill-based politician commented on what has been achieved.

“I was delighted to confirm that over 2,000 new organic farmers will join the Organic Farming Scheme this year. This is a significant milestone along the way to reaching our goal of 10% of Irish farmland under organic production. Organics has now become a major feature of agriculture in Ireland and we are determined to build the markets for the produce both at home and abroad.

"I was delighted to lead a trade mission this week and spend time talking to retailers, suppliers and politicians from across Germany. Bord Bia will continue to help build international market demand for Irish organic produce, through their Dusseldorf office and indeed their wider network across continental Europe. I want to thank the Irish companies that attended Biofach this week and showcased the quality of our sector to potential customers,” she said.

She also praised producers. 

“I want to pay tribute to organic farmers across the country for their hard work and dedication throughout the year, and to the over 2,000 new entrants for committing to organics. As an organic farmer myself, I know that these farmers will reap the benefits of an enhanced lifestyle and farming in a more nature friendly way.

"We have seen this week here in Germany what can be achieved in the organic sector. I am confident that our vibrant organic community at home in Ireland will continue to grow as we work towards achieving a similar level of success as our European counterparts,” she said.

The Green Party Minister is due to travel to Africa on St Patrick's Day. 

Laois and Offaly Ministers on St Patrick's Day missions to Africa and South America

BIOFACH is part of a strong global network of Organic trade fairs which also take place in the USA, Brazil, China, India, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Japan. A key theme of BIOFACH is to promote how organics can become even more influential as a model for the future and a key driver of sustainable food production.