asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state whether the experts of his Department have observed any increase in the incidence of fungus or virus diseases in farm crops; and if so, if he will state what are the causes of such increase and what steps he proposes to take to control and reduce the infection.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fungus and Virus Diseases in Farm Crops.
The increased attention given to the study of fungus or virus diseases in farm crops in recent years has resulted in greatly increased knowledge of these diseases, but this does not necessarily mean that there is any actual increase in their incidence. Where measures of control have been found to be effective, they are brought to the attention of growers of crops and advice is given as to their utilisation.
Surely there is an increase in Virus Yellows, the disease referred to in the previous question?
Yes, but there are others.