Dan Neville
Ceist:23 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views regarding grain production here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20693/02]
Written Answers. - Grain Production.
Average grain production in Ireland over a number of years has been 2 million tonnes and it is desirable to maintain this level of production to avoid over-dependence on imported grain. Difficult weather conditions during the first half of this year created problems during the growing season for cereals. While yields were down by about 12% on recent years, production, at an estimated 1.98 million tonnes, was not far short of the average of 2 million tonnes, mainly due to a substantial increase in the area under winter wheat. This was a satisfactory outcome in view of the difficult weather conditions. Under normal conditions yields in this country are among the highest in Europe.