Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 6

Written Answers - Horticultural Sector.

Ulick Burke

Question:

202 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the increasing trend towards central distribution in the vegetable, potato and fruit marketing areas; and if his attention has been further drawn to the effect this policy is having on small producers in the west in getting a market for this produce in their area and the demands by the supermarket chains to eliminate small producers. [23734/98]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The trend towards central distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables and potatoes has been evident for some time.

In response to the trend An Bord Glas has been actively promoting the concept of producer groups as well as developing "Quality Schemes" aimed at helping producers to meet the increasingly more stringent requirements of the trade and the consumer. Over the last 12 months An Bord Glas has engaged a consultant to assist producers wishing to come together to pack and deliver their produce to the central distributors. The 1999 Estimates published last week includes an additional provision for An Bord Glas which will enable it to continue its work with the producers.

Under the Operational Programme for Agriculture Rural Development and Forestry, £20 million is being invested in the Commercial Horticulture and Potato sectors of which some £7.5 million will be from Exchequer and EU funds.

In addition my Department has recently announced a £6 million investment scheme which is targeted at the post harvesting element of the fresh fruit and vegetable sector. This assistance is aimed particularly at enabling producers to acquire the facilities needed to present quality Irish produce to best advantage and to meet the supermarket demands.