Energy costs for horticultural growers
Leonard proposed extending the natural gas pipeline to growing areas; Hegarty acknowledged glasshouse heating costs and noted grants for converting from oil to solid fuel. Asked about interest subsidies for conversion, he said none were planned, though grant aid for double cladding was being considered.
Will the Minister agree that a really positive step would be to expedite the natural gas pipeline north of Dublin to the fruit and vegetable growing areas? That would go a long way towards improving the position.
Comment on this
I accept that the heating of glasshouses is a big problem, but I must point out that the grant scheme for the conversion from oil to solid fuel has been taken up by at least 11 of the major producers in the business.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware of the huge capital investment involved in the conversion from oil to solid fuel? Will the Minister give specific aid by way of interest subsidy on borrowings for such investment to encourage more people to convert?