I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 156 together.
Imports of potatoes and potato products into Ireland for the years 2008-2010 are presented in the table below. In relation to fresh potatoes, the major imports are in respect of new season and baby potatoes and in the last few years a number of Irish growers have started to produce baby potatoes.
My Department recognises the major challenge in tackling these levels of imports. We have been engaged in discussions with various parties including other State Agencies, growers and manufacturers to make progress in reducing these levels. I am satisfied that the major focus of our efforts should be on fresh potatoes and chips, where the major volumes of imports occur.
I am currently examining the report of the group established to oversee the implementation of the horticultural recommendations in the Harvest 2020 Report. My colleague the Minister of State with responsibility for horticulture, Mr. Shane Mc Entee is ensuring the maximum contribution of horticulture to the Irish economy.
|
Imports
|
|
Jan-Dec 2008
|
Jan-Dec 2009
|
Jan-Dec 2010
|
Descriptions
|
€000
|
Tonnes
|
€000
|
Tonnes
|
€000
|
Tonnes
|
Potatoes, fresh or chilled (not including sweet potatoes)
|
25,848
|
52,212
|
22,840
|
58,021
|
27,433
|
66,326
|
Flour and meal of potatoes
|
2,033
|
1,330
|
1,610
|
1,485
|
4,143
|
6,537
|
Flakes, granules and pellets of potatoes
|
354
|
401
|
305
|
338
|
1,765
|
801
|
Potatoes prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, frozen
|
41,682
|
52,949
|
41,576
|
49,717
|
39,255
|
54,961
|
Potatoes prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, not frozen
|
46,192
|
15,399
|
46,069
|
15,272
|
44,705
|
12,326
|
Grand Total
|
116,109
|
122,291
|
112,400
|
124,833
|
117,301
|
140,951
|