Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 835: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will support the development of the horticulture industry in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14804/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department continues to support the development of the horticulture sector in Ireland. This support has been primarily provided through the grant aid scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. Funding provided under the scheme underpins capital investment on farms that will facilitate environmentally friendly practices, improve working conditions, improve the quality of produce or promote diversification of activities. This investment contributes significantly to the growth and development of the horticulture sector across all areas including the protected crops, field vegetables, nursery crops, mushrooms, soft fruit, apples and beekeeping sectors.

In addition, financial support continues to be available to those producers who participate in the Producer Organisation (PO) Scheme. This EU Scheme provides an important mechanism for growers to become part of a larger supply base, to concentrate marketing and improve quality. Bord Bia also continues to provide support to the horticulture sector in their efforts to develop new markets by way of assistance in the areas of product innovation and marketing skills. Bord Bia is also involved in a number of campaigns to promote demand for horticultural produce including the Incredible Edibles. The Incredible Edibles is an educational initiative for primary school children that is funded by industry, and Bord Bia and facilitated by the Department. This initiative aims to increase fresh fruit and vegetable consumption as part of a healthy diet.