Taoiseach lauds food exports to France as key to economic recovery

Sales into France of Irish beef, lamb, and other agri-food products are playing an important part in Ireland’s economic recovery, according to Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Speaking at the SIAL food expo in Paris, Mr Kenny said there is a long history of friendship between Ireland and France. He said Irish agri-food exports to France grew 14% to €646m during 2011, which is testament to France’s appreciation of both Ireland and its high-quality food output.

“France is our number one customer globally for lamb and for seafood. It is our second largest customer for beef, our third largest for whiskey,” he said.