Rural communities set to benefit most from dairy investments – Collins

“Rural communities are set to benefit most from the recent significant investments in the dairy industry”, says Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, Áine Collins.

“Listening to Minister for Agriculture, Simon Coveney speaking on the dairy sector in the Dáil last night, it was encouraging to hear of all the significant investments in the Cork dairy sector recently. Glanbia have invested €80 million in Mallow. Dairygold has also invested €60 million in Mitchelstown, while another significant investment was made in Charleville as part of a joint project between Kerry Group and Beingmate to produce infant formula. Infant food is actually Ireland’s number one dairy product export.

“The dairy companies are ready for increased production when the milk quotas are lifted in a few short weeks and I know Cork farmers are getting ready also. Milk production is set to double over the next 5 years. The dairy sector is a crucial to the Irish agri-food sector, accounting for more than 30% in value of agri-food exports in 2013.

“Rural communities stand to benefit most from the increased production. When Cork farmers are doing well then the indirect benefit to the Cork economy is substantial. Farmers spend 95% of their income locally, so local businesses and retailers stand to benefit when the farming sector is doing well.”