Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 18 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 4

Written Answers. - Organic Farming.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

17 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the percentage of food consumed in Ireland which is organically produced; the targets which have been set for production of organic food; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13866/00]

Since most official agricultural and trade statistics do not separate organic products from conventional agricultural products, there are limited precise details or official data on production and consumption of organic products available. However, current estimates indicate that organic food products currently represent just under 1% of the total food sales in Ireland and that demand for organic food is increasing.

An Bord Bia is currently preparing a report on the consumer demand for organic produce within Ireland. This study is being carried out in conjunction with Bord Glas and will be completed in mid-June.

Whilst no specific targets have been set for the production of organic food, I expect the demand for organically produced goods will continue to grow. The organic farming sector is a developing sector and is reacting to the demands for goods produced in an environmentally friendly fashion. I am confident that the continuing supports available through the rural environmental protection scheme and the proposals for continued funding for the sector which are included in the national development plan, together with the work being done by An Bord Glas, An Bord Bia and Teagasc, provide a solid platform for the development of the organic sector. The area was the focus of a number of recommendations in the report of the Agri-Food 2010 Committee and these will be considered in the context of the comprehensive response to the report which I have promised.

Top
Share