asked the Minister for Agriculture if his attention has been drawn to the complaints of, if not the outright rejection by, Syria of a cargo of seed potatoes exported from Donegal; whether he will ensure that growers will not suffer any loss, since these potatoes were delivered by them in sound condition to Derry port: and whether he will take steps to ensure that such damage in transit does not occur in future so that the international reputation of Irish seed potatoes is protected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seed Potato Consignment.
34.
I am aware that a complaint was received by Irish Potato Marketing Limited about a consignment of Irish seed potatoes exported to Syria. The potatoes have since been rehandled and sorted following landing and the bulk of them have now been delivered to the consignees. The growers and merchants involved with the consignment have been advised of the position by Irish Potato Marketing Limited and I understand that a decision regarding final payments will likely be made by the company at their meeting next month. I can assure the Deputy that every effort will continue to be made to ensure that our exports of seed potatoes arrive at their destinations in good condition.
Question No. 35 postponed.