Legal protection of Donegal Tweed would protect our heritage – Boyle

The Irish government should seek legal protections for Donegal Tweed, similar to the protections granted to Scotland’s Harris Tweed, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Manus Boyle said the introduction of legal protection for Donegal Tweed will preserve its authenticity and integrity for future generations.

“Donegal is proud of its Tweed. It’s one of Ireland’s great cultural and economic assets, deeply rooted in our county’s history and craftsmanship.

“Donegal Tweed is renowned for its distinctive patterns and rich heritage, yet it’s currently not protected under any official designation of origin. This means imitation and mass production outside of Donegal for this type of Tweed is an open market.

“Unlike Scotland’s Harris Tweed, which has strong legal protections ensuring it can only be made in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, Donegal Tweed does not have any similar safeguards.

“In recent years, we’ve seen cheaper imitations from large retailers that are not made in Donegal but are being marketed under the name ‘Donegal’. This is hurting both producers and consumers.

“We must recognise this unique product under EU Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status or a similar legal framework to protect local producers.

“Donegal businesses are at a complete disadvantage here and this needs to be addressed.

“As a proud Donegal man, I want to see our heritage protected and respected. By getting an EU PGI we would not only keep jobs in Donegal but also uphold our reputation for producing quality, authentic goods.

“Tourism, trade, and Donegal’s cultural heritage would benefit immensely from securing Donegal Tweed’s status as a protected good.

“I am calling on Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke to explore legal protections for Donegal Tweed as a matter of urgency,” concluded Senator Boyle.