asked the Minister for Agriculture if it is the intention of the Government to prohibit the importation of apples, while ample supplies are available from home producers.
Written Answers. - Importation of Apples.
135.
Under EEC regulations it is not possible to impose a restriction on the importation of apples from other member states or from third countries which are traditional suppliers and which observe normal trading practices. I am aware that the yield of Irish apples is above average this season. However, it will still fall well short of market demand and imports will be necessary to supplement the home supplies. Growers should co-operate together and with the trade interests with a view to orderly marketing of the crop.