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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jun 1988

Vol. 382 No. 10

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Potato Industry.

13.

asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the failure of An Bord Glas to produce the report on the way in which the Donegal seed potato industry should be developed; and, in view of the grave difficulties in the potato industry in County Donegal, if he will take steps to have the matter dealt with as one of extreme importance.

There has been no failure as suggested by the Deputy.

The position is that, because of the importance of the sector, it was decided that the commodity team on potatoes set up by An Board Glas should examine and report separately on ware and seed. The report on the ware sector has been received and is being considered by the board. The team is still examining the seed sector and its report is expected shortly.

The reports of the team will form the basis of the development plan to be drawn up for the industry by An Bord Glas.

I understand that the Minister met recently with potato importers in view of the colossal problems being experienced in the new potato industry at present. Can the Minister tell us what the outcome of this meeting was? Have they decided to desist from importing new potatoes as it is unnecessary to do so and as this is causing major problems for the industry at present?

This question relates specifically to the seed potato industry in County Donegal but seeing that Deputy Hegarty has asked me a question about it I can tell him that we did meet with wholesalers and supermarket representatives in regard to the problems which exist in relation to early potatoes. They have indicated that they will sell Irish early potatoes at the various retail outlets and supermarkets. We hope they will do so.

It is one month too late.

I have tabled a priority question——

This question relates to the industry in County Donegal.

There is one matter which has been drawn to my attention which relates to County Donegal and I would like to raise this with the Minister of State. Apparently seed potato growers in County Donegal have suggested that there is a need for plant health legislation which would contain a requirement to rotate in order to reduce the dangers posed by eelworms. Has the Minister of State any views on this matter and is he aware of that particular proposal from seed potato growers in County Donegal?

Rotation in potato production is very important and this is an area we will be giving special attention to. It would be wrong of me to anticipate what will be contained in the report of the commodity team but I am sure it will cover that aspect.

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