Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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42. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his proposals to support the mushroom and broader horticultural sectors in view of ongoing challenges as a result of Government policy pertaining to the sector. [26925/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Department provides a support to the horticulture industry through the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Horticulture Sector. Financial support is available to assist growers and businesses through grant aid for capital investments in specialised plant and equipment including renewable energy, as well as technology adoption specific to commercial horticulture production. A 50% budget increase to €9 million has been secured for 2021 reflecting the importance of the sector. This Scheme is 100% funded by the Irish Government.

In addition, the Department administers the EU Producer Organisation Scheme for Fruit and Vegetables which allows growers jointly market their production in order to strengthen the position of producers in the marketplace.