Vol. 573 No. 4
134 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of mushroom producers who were in production in 1997; the number producing for the market place at the present time; if his attention has been drawn to the serious crisis within the industry; if he has satisfied himself that all mushrooms being sold as Irish in the UK market place are Irish; if steps are being taken to monitor that situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25542/03]
The mushroom industry is an important industry nationally. In 1997 total mushroom output was an estimated 56,000 tonnes produced by 576 growers. Last year an estimated 69,000 tonnes was produced by 365 growers. Rationalisation and restructuring is taking place among growers, producer organisation, composters and marketing companies. While some growers have left the industry, mushroom output has been maintained by growers who expanded. The sector is facing strong competition on the British market at the present time but I do not believe that mislabelling is a significant factor in the current marketing climate. This year mandatory indication of origin has been introduced in the UK and I understand that the authorities there are actively enforcing it.
There are serious issues facing the mushroom industry. In this regard, I have recently announced the setting up of a mushroom task force. It will consist of private and State interests involved in the mushroom supply chain and its brief is to devise a timebound action plan to address the issues now facing the industry with a view to securing the future viability of the sector. I look forward to receiving this action plan in the new year.
