asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the Carne potato producers group and others were left short of foundation stock seed potatoes of homeguard and other varieties this spring; having regard to the fact that the problem was identified last December, the reason growers were not notified until March, 1989, leaving it too late to organise supplies from the Six Counties or Scotland; and if he will guarantee in future years that when a problem is identified in storage, growers will be immediately informed and thereby enabled to make alternative arrangements for supplies especially first earlies.
Written Answers. - Seed Potato Stocks.
98.
The area sown in 1988 to produce foundation stock of Home Guard seed potatoes was adequate to meet projected demand. However, the quantity ultimately available was reduced significantly owing to high rejections in the course of field inspections and to storage losses. In accordance with normal practice, growers were advised of the quantities being allocated to them as soon as orders were received and processed.
My Department met a representative of the Carne potato producers group in mid February and explained the position, including the feasibility of obtaining alternative supplies. Varieties other than Home Guard were supplied in full.