asked the Taoiseach the value of imports of the following products for the last accounting period in respect of which figures are available: (a) fresh vegetables (b) fresh fruit (c) canned or processed vegetables and (d) canned or processed fruit.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fruit and Vegetable Imports.
12.
In the year 1975 the provisional value of imports of fresh vegetables was £3.4 million; fresh fruit, £15.2 million; canned and processed vegetables, including dried, £5.4 million and canned and processed fruit, including dried, £8.3 million.
Would the Government take steps to encourage increased production of both fruit and vegetables, which are very labour-intensive and would create employment?
That is a policy matter which should be taken up with another Minister.
I am sure the Government would encourage that in the coming year.