asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the serious plight of seed potato growers in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Seed Potato Growers.
95.
Exports of seed potatoes, which come mainly from County Donegal, have been experiencing difficulties in the past few years due mainly to competition from new varieties from other supplying countries, lack of remunerative prices for our traditional varieties and increased costs of production here. Irish Potato Marketing have been encouraging growers to switch production for the traditional varieties to the new Irish-bred variety, Cara, for which the company hold plant breeders' rights and which is in good demand on export markets. The company consider that this policy will enhance the prospects for exports over the next few years.