Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 337: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if concerns have been raised with his Department regarding the threat of rust fungus in wheat here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18882/10]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The Rust fungus is a common disease of cereal production in Ireland and is one of many cereal diseases that producers have to contend with on an annual basis. Disease pressures in cereal production in Ireland is generally higher than most other European countries due to our climatic conditions.

In the case of Rust, its incidence and threat will vary from year to year, from crop to crop and also between different regions. Where there is an incidence or threat from the disease, it can be controlled very effectively with the appropriate crop management strategy including the use of approved fungicides. Teagasc has carried out and continues to carry out extensive research in this area including fungicide strategies/programmes to give optimal control of disease in cereal crops. Information and advice on all aspects of cereal disease control is available from the Teagasc Advisory Service'.