asked the Minister for Agriculture if he has now satisfied himself that the tomato glasshouse scheme in the Donegal Gaeltacht has proved a success; and, if so, if he will consider extending the scheme to the remainder of the Donegal Gaeltacht.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Donegal Gaeltacht Tomato Scheme.
In my view the Gaeltacht glasshouse scheme in the Donegal Gaeltacht has justified itself, i.e., that it has achieved its object of demonstrating that with some assistance towards the initial capital expenditure and with careful management the production of tomatoes on a commercial scale is a worthwhile proposition for smallholders in Gaeltacht areas who can be found in sufficient numbers within an area limited enough in size to form an economic unit.
The claims of other Gaeltacht areas and the extent of further State assistance would have to be examined before consideration could be given to the question of extending the scheme in County Donegal.
Is there any further area in West Donegal being examined at the moment?
Mr. Walsh
We are carrying out experiments in Donegal—heating apparatus, and so forth.
But is any further area in West Donegal being examined?
Mr. Walsh
Not at the moment.
Would the Minister consider Arranmore Island?
Question No. 13.