Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 361: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the progress made in expanding the horticulture sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39416/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Horticultural industry consists of a number of different sectors, each of which has differing problems and needs. In terms of fresh fruit and vegetables, Irish self sufficiency levels vary greatly depending on the product in question. For example Ireland is well over 1000% self-sufficient in mushrooms but many fruit types can't be grown in Ireland due to our climate. Overall Ireland is circa 85% self sufficient in vegetables (including potatoes) but the corresponding figure for fruit is much lower. We are also net importers of nursery stock and flower crops.

Following the publication of Harvest 2020, a Horticultural Action Group was established and this Group made a number of specific recommendations. Many of the recommendations address general issues of competitiveness, costs of production and availability of credit which the Government is tackling right across the economy, whilst my colleague Minister of State, Mr Shane McEntee has been involved in progressing those recommendations which come within the remit of my Department. He has had many meetings with different elements of the industry stressing the need for greater co-operation in order that we can compete against imports, whilst meeting the demands of the retailers.

Within my Department, we have two main means of promoting the industry. 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 a core part of the EU strategy for improving the competitiveness of the fruit and vegetable sector in the future and was one of the main recommendations for the horticultural industry in the Harvest 2020 Report. My Department continues to encourage growers to become actively involved in Producer Organisations.

Through the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector, my Department continues to provide grant aid for horticultural growers who are making capital investments in specialist plant and equipment. The main objectives of the scheme are to improve the quality of products, to facilitate environmentally friendly practices and to promote diversification of on-farm activities in response to market demand. Under the 2011 Scheme, my Department approved 157 projects.

I am pleased to note that, in the recent Budget, €3.25 million was allocated to the Scheme for 2012 and applications under the scheme will be accepted shortly. The grant aid covers all areas of the horticultural industry and will assist in funding investments of approximately €8 million in 2012.