Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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Question 218: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans, if any, to expand the role of producer organisations particularly in the horticultural area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10160/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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In the face of ever-greater concentration of demand, the grouping of supply through producer organisations (POs) is a core part of the EU strategy for strengthening the position of producers in the market and was one of the main recommendations for the horticultural industry in the Harvest 2020 Report.

The POs play a role in supporting Irish producers of fruit and vegetables. Whilst my Department has encouraged growers to become actively involved in Producer Organisations, I have to recognise that currently difficulties are being experienced across a number of Member States in implementing the Scheme.