Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 281: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the value of the horticulture industry, on a county basis, in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21651/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In 2010 the output value of horticulture, including the potato sector was estimated at €391.4 millions, as follows:

Horticulture

*Potato values based on CSO estimates. All other values based on DAFF estimates.

It is not possible to provide information on the value of the horticultural industry on a county basis. The significant variation in production of field vegetables and potatoes between 2009 and 2010 was very much influenced by weather conditions, including severe frost, and market prices.

My Department provides grant aid for horticultural growers who are making capital investments in specialist plant and equipment through the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector. The main objectives of the scheme are to improve the quality of products, facilitate environmentally friendly practices and promote diversification of on-farm activities in response to market demand. This year my Department allocated €4.1 million to 157 projects under this Scheme.

In its 2007 reform of the common organisation of the market for fruit and vegetables, the EU made further provision for financial assistance to producers grouping, on a voluntary basis, to form recognised Producer Organisations (POs) under the EU Scheme of Aid for Producer Organisations in the Fruit and Vegetables Sector. The POs play a vital role in supporting Irish producers of fruit and vegetables. The strengthening of their role is one of the main recommendations for the horticultural industry in the Harvest 2020 Report. Payments of €5.785m issued last year in respect of 2009 operational programmes implemented by Irish POs.