Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2004
102 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention was drawn to the pressures being experienced by the mushroom industry here due to increased labour costs arising from the enlargement of the EU; and if he is aware of the threat posed to the industry, specifically regarding supply to the British market. [20096/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware that the mushroom industry has had a high dependence on labour from countries which are now member states of the European Union. This issue was recognised by the Mushroom Task Force which recommended in its recent report that the work permit system should continue in respect of non EU countries.
A review group has been established to oversee implementations of the recommendations of the task force and progress on the work permit issue will form part of the group's work. This matter has been brought to the attention of the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment.
The cost of labour is one of a number cost issues now facing the mushroom industry and a wide ranging and ambitious programme of actions has been mapped out for the industry in the report of the task force in order to make it competitive and to ensure its future viability.
