asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has satisfied himself that the provision in the Estimate of £30,000 will make a significant contribution towards the market co-ordination of Irish fruit and vegetables; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Market Co-ordination of Irish Fruit and Vegetables.
47.
This sum was provided to assist a pilot vegetable marketing project with the aim of encouraging the formation of EC producer groups. It forms part of a package of aid measures available for the development of the producer group system which I regard as a major element in improving the organisation of production and marketing of horticultural produce. The other aid measures are £50,000 for the encouragement of horticultural co-operatives including the employment of a national development co-ordinator and £30,000 towards the formation costs of EC producer groups.
I am satisfied that these provisions are adequate for 1987 to generate a renewed interest in the producer group system.