Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Apr 1994

Vol. 441 No. 5

Written Answers. - Nursery Stock.

James Leonard

Question:

150 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has for the production of nursery stock in view of the large quantities which are imported and which could be propagated here providing employment.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. J. Walsh)

Nursery stock can be traded freely within the European Union and trade from outside the Union is restricted only by plant health and quality requirements.

Unilateral action by individual member states is precluded by EU rules of competition. Nevertheless, despite strong international competition, production of nursery stock in Ireland has increased from an estimated £2.9 million to £12 million during the past ten years. This development is taking place with assistance from Structural Funds and the application of strict plant health controls. The promotion of nursery stock is carried out by An Bord Glas. In addition Teagasc provides research and advisory services in this area.