asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, he proposes to take or may have taken to investigate the economic viability of organic farming, having regard to the need to conserve and protect the Irish agricultural environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Organic Farming.
24.
Research and investigation work is being carried out by Teagasc to establish suitable organic techniques for crop and animal production. In addition in its current research into pest and disease control the concept of reducing the use of pesticides by better timing and efficient placement and by the alternative development of biological controls is being investigated.
A draft Commission proposal concerning the methods of organic production of agricultural products is under discussion at working group level. While the proposal covers only products of plant origin there is provision for extending it to other products at a later date.
Also An Bord Glas has established a commodity group to examine and report on a range of issues, including economic viability, relating to organic farming in the horticultural sector.