Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 73: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on whether there is a threat to staple fruit and vegetable crops here due to climate change which is going to cause major changes in farming practices; the plans he is making to plan for future food shortages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43985/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I am very much aware that the future health of Ireland's agriculture sector is inextricably linked with the ability of Irish farmers to respond, in a sustainable way, to both the challenges and the opportunities arising from changes to our climate.

There is no evidence to suggest that climate change poses any major threat to our staple fruit and vegetable crops. Indeed, the impact on horticulture crops in Ireland could be positive with potential for improvement in the conditions for growing fruit and vegetables and an expansion in the land area suitable for such production.

I believe, therefore, that there is no prospect of food shortages in Ireland arising from climate change. However, the Government is very conscious of the importance of underpinning food security and ensuring our agricultural sector is sustainable and resilient against the background of emerging global challenges.