Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 February 2009
198 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the fact that some indigenous food suppliers (details supplied) are experiencing financial difficulty due to unfair trading conditions and currency challenges; the measures he will take to assist businesses here in facing such difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5347/09]
View answerMany suppliers of fruit and vegetables are experiencing trading difficulties in the current economic turmoil. Some of the difficulties are due to currency developments but they are mainly due to decisions made by the market outlets. These are commercial decisions made by private organisations and not something in which I would be entitled to intervene.
I understand that the enterprise to which the Deputy refers is currently trading reduced volumes and that its staff are on protective notice because its contracts with one of the multiples have been wound down. However, the enterprise in question apparently intends to continue in business. This enterprise has received substantial support from my Department, including under the NDP schemes, and if it continues in business it will be entitled to apply for assistance under future schemes.
