Banagher meat plant
Deputy Cahill asked for an update on the proposed Banagher meat plant and complained about costly delays from legal challenges to livestock infrastructure. The Minister welcomed the Glanbia court outcome and said he would seek an update from the relevant Minister.
I call Deputy Cahill. I apologise to him because I should have called him earlier. I missed him behind the mask.
Comment on this
That is no bother. Last week the Supreme Court upheld An Bord Pleanála’s decision on Glanbia's plant in Belview. Unfortunately, the continuing objections to the plant have cost farmers countless millions of euro. I would like an update on the meat plant proposed for Banagher, Offaly. Offaly County Council granted permission for it in July 2020. When will a decision be made on that? Will farmers again have to spend countless sums of money on endless appeals in respect of this meat infrastructure, which would bring greatly needed competition and an independent operator into the industry? I hope the Banagher plant will receive permission sooner rather than later.
Comment on this
I thank Deputy Cahill. Again, I very much welcome the Supreme Court decision on the Glanbia plant. It is very good news for the region, farmers and country. I will ask the Minister to come back to the Deputy directly with an update on the Banagher meat plant in County Offaly.