Vegetable production and Fastnet Co-op
The Minister said Bord Glas was assessing sector reports to develop a horticulture plan, while reopening Fastnet Co-op was primarily a matter for commercial interests. Sheehan pressed for action on vegetable growing in west Cork and the factory’s potential, but the Chair ruled his remarks out of order; Deasy noted the area’s subtropical climate, and Sheehan sought a reply.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, his Department are taking to promote vegetable growing in this country, and particularly the area of south-west Cork which enjoys a sub-tropical climate ideal for vegetable production; and the plans, if any, he has to reopen the Fastnet Co-op vegetable factory in Skibbereen, County Cork.
Comment on this
The Government have a strong commitment to the development of the Irish horticulture industry. An Bord Glas, which they have set up, established a number of commodity teams to confront the problems facing the various sectors of the industry, including the vegetable sector. The reports of these teams are currently being examined by the board with a view to the preparation of a blueprint for the future development of the industry.
On the specific question relating to Fastnet Co-op, the reopening of this processing plant is primarily a matter for commercial interests. The IDA, the State agency directly involved, is available to evaluate any initiative in this regard. My Department would also be glad to assist any such initiative in whatever way they can.
Comment on this
The Minister stated he is setting up a monitoring team to investigate the possibility of vegetable production here. Surely it does not need another investigation to convince the Minister that there is ample room for the development of vegetable production here, particularly in west Cork? The reply given to the first question on the Order Paper today showed that £722 million worth of food was imported last year. Surely that is sufficient proof for the Minister to take a step to——
Comment on this
——to fresh and frozen production it would be still there today. For an organisation such as Bord Glas——
