Food and drink exports more than 8% higher than same time last year

THE value of food and drink exports for the first five months of 2010 was €3 billion, more than 8% higher than the same period last year.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Brendan Smith described the growth as particularly encouraging when he presided at the first meeting of the high level Food Harvest Implementation Group.

He said this strong recovery in export markets, particularly in the key dairy and beef sectors, highlights the tremendous potential for developing and expanding exports with consequent benefits for employment.