The terms of reference for a €100,000 wool feasibility study have been published by the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue.

The funds were set aside to finance an in-depth study to review potential demand in domestic and international markets for wool-based products, such as insulation and fertiliser.

In response to a question from Sinn Féín’s Claire Kerrane, Minister McConalogue said: “Wool production is an important component of agri-industry.

“It is a sustainable, organic, renewable natural material, which can be used in a wide range of products such as textiles, fertilisers, insulation and packaging.”

Terms of reference

Under the proposed terms of reference, the following work will be undertaken:

  • Identify market opportunities domestically and internationally for wool-based products.
  • Carry out economic feasibility and cost benefit analysis on proposed market opportunities.
  • Determine mechanisms that could be used to support industry initiatives.

  • Identify potential research projects applicable to supporting the identified market opportunities.

    • The Department of Agriculture is now asking stakeholders involved in the wool industry to submit comments on the terms of reference. Submissions on potential market opportunities are also being invited.

    Comments should be submitted to the Department via email at woolfeasibilitystudy@agriculture.gov.ie. The closing date for submissions is 5.30pm on 20 March 2021.

    Submissions

    Submissions on potential market opportunities should include the following:

  • Individual/company name and address.
  • Relevant experience in the wool industry.
  • Details of proposal (max 400 words).
  • Methodology proposed.
  • Approximate costing.

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