Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 11 Dec 2002

Vol. 559 No. 2

Written Answers. - Horticulture Industry.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

110 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the way in which he proposes to deal with the crisis in Irish horticulture where the lack of Irish research in integrated pest control and organic methodologies now leaves growers facing ruin due to stricter controls on the use of pesticides, particularly those used for the control of aphids on brassicas, such as Brussels sprouts. [26006/02]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I am aware of the difficulties currently being experienced within the horticulture industry as a result of the unavailability of certain plant protection products which were, heretofore, available to the industry. The removal of these products from the commercial marketplace is as a consequence of the implementation of the EU review programme whereby all such products must undergo reassessment to ensure their safe use in the environment. The reassessment process involves an application for re-authorisation by the manufacturer. However, current indications are that many of the manufacturers will not apply for re-authorisation of their products.

A considerable amount of research and development work has been carried out and is still ongoing in Ireland into means of pest control aimed at reducing the use of chemicals. Much of this research, such as that into novel delivery systems and environmental monitoring, has wide application. In addition, there are research projects into integrated pest management aimed at specific pests of mushrooms, fruit, potato and vegetables. Research into vine weevils which should be of major benefit in reducing insecticides in the ornamental sector is ongoing. Biological control of pests of crops produced in glass houses has been widely adopted. The mushroom sector is developing alternative methods based on research conducted here. The adoption of low input systems and biological control by producers and marketing organisations is encouraged under a scheme of aid for producer organisations in the fruit and vegetable sector.

My Department has been actively engaged in trying to identify solutions to the problem facing the industry. To this end, the Minister of State, Deputy Treacy, and officials have met Bord Glas and members of the industry on a number of occasions to discuss options which can be pursued within the current legal framework. While some success has been achieved through the extension of the life of products for essential uses, other options being considered include extending the approval of plant protection products authorised for commercial crops for use on minor horticulture crops. However, the overall objective is to maintain a very high level of safety for man, animals and the environment.