Robert O'Donoghue (Dublin Fingal West, Labour)
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109. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will introduce a dedicated funding stream or expand grant supports for domestic fruit and vegetable growers, given Ireland's heavy reliance on imports in these sectors, a situation that is unsustainable in the long term; the measures being taken to strengthen local horticultural production and national food security through Food Vision 2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55120/25]

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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The publication of the National Strategy for Horticulture 2023-2027 aligns with and delivers on a specific action in Food Vision 2030 by providing a road map for the horticulture industry to ensure the future economic, social and environmental sustainability of this crucial sector. Launched in June 2023, the Strategy sets down a clear vision to grow a more profitable, value-added sector, driven by innovation and sustainability and provides a road map for the sector to achieve this potential.

Government has provided significant supports to the Irish horticulture industry, including fruit and vegetable growers, through a range of initiatives.

The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector provides grant aid towards capital investments in specialised plant and equipment, including renewable energy, as well as technology adoption specific to commercial horticulture production. The Scheme covers all horticultural areas including field vegetables (including seed potatoes), mushrooms, protected food crops, amenity crops, soft fruit, and top fruit, and beekeeping.

The Scheme of Investment Aid for Innovation and Diversification in Horticulture (Feasibility/Desk Studies) and the Scheme of Investment Aid for Innovation and Diversification in Horticulture (Capital Investments) are designed to assist in increasing innovation and diversification among primary producers in the horticulture sector including fruit and vegetable producers.

Fruit and vegetable growers are also eligible for supports under the CAP Strategic Plan (CSP). Growers can avail of significant financial supports across a range of measures including on farm investments under the EU funded Producer Organisation Scheme for Fruit and Vegetables.

Fruit and vegetable growers may also be eligible to apply for support under the CSP including the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme 3, Basic Income Support for Sustainability Scheme, Agri Climate Rural Environment Scheme and the Organic Farming Scheme.

I recently secured €8.8 million for Horticulture in Budget 2026, which recognises the continued government support for the development of this important sector. I am committed to seeing this sector, grow and flourish in the years ahead and my Department is working collaboratively with stakeholders to progress all key strategic actions in the National Strategy for Horticulture.