Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Question 155: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the value and volume of potato chips and other potato-related imports in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6999/12]

Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Question 156: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there is any import substitution initiative for potato chips products being considered by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7000/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 156 together.

Imports of potatoes and potato products into Ireland for the years 2008 – 2010 are presented in the table below. In relation to fresh potatoes, the major imports are in respect of new season and baby potatoes and in the last few years a number of Irish growers have started to produce baby potatoes.

My Department recognises the major challenge in tackling these levels of imports. We have been engaged in discussions with various parties including other State Agencies, growers and manufacturers to make progress in reducing these levels. I am satisfied that the major focus of our efforts should be on fresh potatoes and chips, where the major volumes of imports occur.

I am currently examining the report of the group established to oversee the implementation of the horticultural recommendations in the Harvest 2020 Report. My colleague the Minister of State with responsibility for horticulture, Mr. Shane Mc Entee is ensuring the maximum contribution of horticulture to the Irish economy.

Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the value of fresh fruit and vegetables imports in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7001/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Imports of fresh fruit and vegetables into Ireland for the years 2008 – 2010 are presented in the table below.

My Department continues to encourage the production of fruit and vegetables in Ireland and in the Budget I announced the provision of €3.25 million of grant aid for the commercial horticultural sector for 2012. In addition, my Department administers the EU Producer Organisation Scheme.

I am currently examining the report of the group established to oversee the implementation of the horticultural recommendations in the Harvest 2020 Report. My colleague the Minister of State with responsibility for horticulture, Mr. Shane Mc Entee is ensuring the maximum contribution of horticulture to the Irish economy. Imports of fruit and vegetables into Ireland 2008 – 2010

1 includes fresh/dried