asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he has noted a report in a newspaper (details supplied) that many farmers have suffered a severe financial loss as a result of using single dressed seed wheat for winter sowing rather than the double dressed variety; and if he will make a statement on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Winter Wheat Sowing.
7.
I am aware that there has been a certain amount of damage by birds to winter sown wheat crops.
Single dressing of seed is primarily a protection against some seed-borne fungus diseases. Double dressing provides additional protection against wireworm attacks. While double dressings give a greater measure of protection against bird attacks they can adversely affect germination and plant vigour.
A press release has been issued by my Department drawing the attention of cereal growers to the possibility of bird attacks on spring sown crops and advising them on protective measures.
Was that sent out prior to the sowing of this year's crops which were affected, or since?
It was since.