Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 9 Jul 1992

Vol. 422 No. 5

Written Answers. - Mushroom Industry.

John Connor

Question:

157 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the recent changes in the regulations governing the payment of PRSI and part-time workers is having a very serious and damaging effect on the mushroom industry which will lead to unemployment and the close-down of the smaller mushroom producer; and if he has had discussions with his colleagues, the Ministers for Finance and Social Welfare, in relation to the particular needs of this industry in relation to part-time working and PRSI.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

In April 1991 full social insurance was introduced for all part-time workers. In September 1991 the then Minister for Horticulture, with officials of the Department of Social Welfare held a meeting with mushroom growers to explore the concerns of the mushroom industry in this regard. I understand that it is not the practice of the Department of Social Welfare to selectively encourage particular industries through the alleviation of their social insurance contributions.