Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:65 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has assessed the impact of imports on mushroom producers here; and the amount of mushroom imports annually. [24489/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 13 October 2004
Ceisteanna (64)
Freagraí scríofa
According to the CSO the amount of mushrooms and truffles imported into Ireland over the past three years is, on average, 800 tonnes per annum. Mushroom production here has remained stable at approximately 66,000 tonnes over the same period. Therefore, imports of mushrooms into Ireland are not significant in terms of overall production and would tend to be exotic varieties to meet the demands of niche markets.
As much as 75% of Irish mushroom production is exported to the UK market. The Irish industry is facing a significant competitive threat from Dutch and Polish imports. Earlier this year the mushroom task force completed a report. It made a number of recommendations to address the competitive threats facing the industry and their implementation is ongoing.