asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that vegetable growers are slow to establish co-ordinated marketing and that this is likely to lead to further increases in imports and that the result of a recent Agricultural Institute survey found that there is sufficient interest and support for co-operation to warrant an expansion of the present pilot project in the Meath-Dublin area and the establishment of similar groups in other areas; and if he will consider taking steps to encourage increased co-operation in this sector.
Written Answers. - Co-ordinated Marketing of Vegetables.
390.
I have continuously encouraged the development of co-ordinated marketing arrangements by vegetable growers. Financial aid has been provided towards the cost of setting up Commercial Horticultural Producers Society of Ireland Limited and towards the pilot scheme in the Dublin-Meath area. A scheme of aid is also available towards the formation and operating costs of producer groups. These measures provide a very positive base for the extension and commercial development of co-operative marketing arrangements in other areas.