Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

Has the Minister of State had an opportunity to address the broader crisis in the horticulture sector? The potato harvest has been virtually wiped out. This is a critical time for those contemplating setting produce for 2010. Are efforts being made to meet representatives of the sector to discuss establishing a rescue package, whether an Exchequer funded or European Union funded scheme, following the virtual wipe-out of a crop?

While the Minister of State will be most familiar with the problem in the potato sector, it is not the only sector affected. The Minister, Deputy Smith, met representatives of the potato sector recently. We are well past crisis point because the industry will close down if the Department does not introduce an initiative to address the problem.

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