A public consultation on a review of Irish whisky’s ‘technical dossier’, which sets out how it is produced, will open this weekend.
Irish whiskey benefits from the EU Geographical Indication (GI), which means that the name “Irish whisky” cannot be used on products that are not produced according to the process specified in the technical file.
The name also cannot be used in markets outside the EU where the EU has an agreement with that country or trading bloc to recognize EU geographical indications; For example, in the trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur.
A review of the technical file may lead to changes in the rules regarding how Irish whiskey is produced.
Currently, the Irish Whiskey Technical Profile does not currently require the use of Irish grains in Irish whiskey production.
The review provides the opportunity to change that.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine said Irish whiskey was an important product for the island of Ireland.
“The industry today blends ancient historical craftsmanship with modern innovation. Its special importance is recognized through its status as a geographical indication,” the administration said.
Geographical indication status is granted to products that have a certain quality, reputation or other characteristics attributable to a particular geographical area, where at least one stage of production, processing or preparation takes place in that area.
Commenting on the consultation, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Haydon said: “This consultation provides an important opportunity for producers, businesses, consumers and other interested parties to contribute their views on the technical file.
Minister Haydon added: “Geographical indications help protect regional food heritage, support local economies and provide consumers with confidence in the authenticity of the product.”
Northern Ireland Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, said: “Irish whiskey is a world-famous product, steeped in tradition and vital to our agri-food and drinks sector.
“This consultation provides an important opportunity to hear views on the technical specifications, thereby ensuring they continue to protect the integrity, quality and reputation of the geographical indication,” Minister Muir added.
The public consultation will open on Friday (26 June) from 9:00am and stakeholders are invited to review the product specifications and relevant documentation and provide comments, feedback or objections “where appropriate”.
This consultation will form part of the review process of product specifications by the relevant authorities.
