Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
950. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what work is being done to find and promote alternatives to diquat for desiccating potatoes to farmers in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37157/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department recognises the concerns of the potato industry relating to the effective desiccation of potato crops, particularly for late planted crops.
Several alternative products, containing the active substances carfentrazone-ethyl or pyraflufen-ethyl, are currently authorised in Ireland for use as potato crop desiccants. These products can provide a viable alternative to diquat in certain cases, when used as part of an integrated crop management approach.
Teagasc has carried out extensive work on desiccation strategies for potato crops in Ireland and continues to engage with growers on how best to manage crops. Teagasc stress the importance of implementing an integrated approach where feasible. This approach includes seed manipulation prior to planting, careful use of nitrogen fertiliser and mechanical topping of the crop prior to desiccation where possible.
My Department provides support for haulm toppers under the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme. Growers continue to adopt and develop their experience in managing crops and my Department will continue to support these efforts.
