Vol. 539 No. 1
77 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on the decline in the quantity of fruit being grown traditionally, such as apples; if he will provide a comparison with the most up to date figures and those of 20 years ago; and the plans he has to redress this situation. [18819/01]
It is estimated that the production of all fruit in 1980 was 17,700 tonnes, of which apples accounted for 11,000 tonnes. The comparable figures for 2000 are 13,100 tonnes in total, of which 10,800 tonnes are in respect of apples. While apple production has remained relatively stable, the production of other fruits has declined due mainly to a fall off in processing. However, producers now have better returns as they are focusing on the production of high value fruit for the fresh market.
There are a number of schemes available for growers to improve production methods, quality and supply of fruit. An investment aid scheme for the horticulture sector operated by my Department under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 will provide aid for fruit growers. In addition, a post-harvest capital investment scheme for marketing and processing of agricultural products, including fruit, was recently launched by my Department under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Growers who form producer organisations under the common organisation of the market can also avail of EU aid. An Bord Glas operate a quality assurance programme for growers to ensure that produce is of a high standard acceptable to consumers, and research into improved fruit production is carried out by Teagasc.
