I understand that the Minister met recently with potato importers in view of the colossal problems being experienced in the new potato industry at present. Can the Minister tell us what the outcome of this meeting was? Have they decided to desist from importing new potatoes as it is unnecessary to do so and as this is causing major problems for the industry at present?

This question relates specifically to the seed potato industry in County Donegal but seeing that Deputy Hegarty has asked me a question about it I can tell him that we did meet with wholesalers and supermarket representatives in regard to the problems which exist in relation to early potatoes. They have indicated that they will sell Irish early potatoes at the various retail outlets and supermarkets. We hope they will do so.

It is one month too late.