Vol. 478 No. 3
104 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the expected value of the Irish potato market in 1997; his views on the quality of Irish potatoes; the development plans, if any, he has for an increase in the market and export markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10994/97]
It is expected that the area planted to potatoes in 1997 will show a decrease over 1996 when approximately 24,300 hectares were sown. While it is possible to make a reasonable estimate of production tonnage for the crop, based on a normal growing season, prices obtained by growers are determined solely by market forces.
The quality of the 1996 crop was generally quite good at harvest and, using suitable handling equipment and refrigerated storage, that high quality can be maintained until the new season potatoes come onto the market in June-July. There is little scope for further expansion in the domestic market for potatoes and the industry must seek out new export potential if growth is to be achieved. In addition there is ongoing effort to develop new and innovative products to help secure the production base.
