2678. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has plans to develop and expand the organic egg industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60601/26]

The National Organic Strategy, published in 2024 sets out a clear vision for the development of the organic sector in Ireland. The plan sets six strategic priorities and 51 actions that span the full value chain, from farming and food production through to trade customers and consumers, aimed at driving significant growth in the value of organic farming and food production, with a target to increase in wholesale food value from €200m today to €750m by 2030.

In respect of the poultry and egg sectors the National Organic Strategy proposes the potential for a 50% increase in organic egg production to 53m eggs annually. My department continues to engage with industry stakeholders on the Organic Forum, to monitor and support progression of the Strategy including on further development of the organic poultry and egg sectors.

Progress to date is encouraging and Bord Bia has reported that overall organic retail sales in Ireland grew by 12.8% in 2025, demonstrating increasing consumer awareness and spend on organics. This trend is also visible in EU markets where spend on organics also continues to grow.